Gambling options continue to increase across Nebraska and the need for problem gambling treatment is at an all-time high. But A proposal included in Governor Jim Pillen’s Budget would eliminate the Nebraska Commission on Problem Gambling and transfer the Gamblers Assistance Program to the Division of Behavioral Health of the Department of Health and Human Services.
“This would potentially impact the allocation of current funding used towards problem gambling treatment, putting the ability to treat current and future problem gamblers and their loved ones in jeopardy,” says Mike Sciandra, Executive Director of the Nebraska Council on Problem Gambling.
Sciandra says the number of problem gambling clients being treated in Nebraska has grown as gambling options have expanded. “This growth has been navigated with responsible financial stewardship, increased treatment providers, and increased promotion of available services, thanks to the efforts of the Nebraska Commission on Problem Gambling.”
Sciandra says the organizational mission is to counter the negative impact of gambling addiction with effective, evidence-based prevention and treatment services for Nebraskans and their families.
“We wholeheartedly agree that Commission has delivered on this mission through their leadership, allowing for the delivery of compassionate and effective levels of care needed to encourage problem gambling recovery.”
Sciandra says they are recommending that the Nebraska Commission on Problem Gambling remain intact. “At such a dangerous point of increased problematic gambling behavior, we feel that continuity of services is vital to ensure all Nebraskans mitigate the risks of gambling-related harm.”