State ensures support for gambling addictions through the Illinois Department of Human Services thanks to Morrison

DEERFIELD — State Senator Julie Morrison lead a measure that would provide addiction services and resources to Illinoisans affected by gambling disorders.

“Gambling addictions have long burdened residents and families across Illinois – financially destroying lives and creating long-term mental health distress,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “By classifying gambling as a disorder through the Department of Humans Services, the state will be able to provide addiction services to those affected.”

According to the Illinois Department of Human Services, roughly 3.8% of adult Illinoisans are considered to have a gambling problem, with an additional 7.7% at risk of developing a gambling problem. 

Senate Bill 2749 would include gambling disorders as a recognized disorder under the Substance Abuse Disorder Act. This would enable the Illinois Department of Human Services Division of Substance Abuse Prevention and Recovery to coordinate disorder prevention, treatment, recovery and other supportive services.

This would allow and require the department to advise the Social Services Advisory Council in preventing gambling and gaming by minors, in addition to promoting public awareness of the stigma, impact recognition and prevention of gambling disorders on individuals, families and communities.

The measure would also require the department to select a statement regarding obtaining assistance with gambling disorders that licensed gambling establishment owners and master sports wagering licenses would then post publicly or include on their portal, website or app.

It further would allow for the treatment of a gambling disorder to be added as an adjunct to any of the existing treatment levels of care or to recovery home intervention and would state that harm reduction services are authorized by intervention licensure if and when legal authorization is adopted.

“Recognizing gambling addictions as a disorder and treating it with the same importance of any other public health issue,” said Morrison. “We are ensuring all residents have access to the support and resources they need, when they need it.”

Senate Bill 2749 passed the Senate Thursday, and now heads to the House for further consideration.

###