POINTS Act of 2026

Increased Access to Treatment Services (Section 2, adding Section 554(a)): This provision allows States, Indian Tribes, and Tribal organizations to establish, improve, or expand programs providing prevention, screening, assessment, intervention, and treatment services for individuals at risk of or experiencing clinical gambling addiction. This is positive because it helps people get the specific help they need for gambling addiction.

Support for High-Risk Groups (Section 2, adding Section 554(c)(1)): Priority is given to applicants that serve individuals who are disproportionally impacted by gambling addiction, including men, youth, Native Americans, members of the Armed Forces, and veterans. This is a positive step to ensure that vulnerable populations receive targeted assistance.

Help Lines and Real-Time Services (Section 2, adding Section 554(b)(4)): Grant recipients can use funds to establish or expand help lines or other real-time services, including coordinating with the National Problem Gambling Helpline. This provides individuals with immediate, accessible support when they need intervention.

Training for Health Care Providers (Section 2, adding Section 554(b)(1)): Funds can be used to provide training on screening, brief intervention, referral for treatment, and treatment to health care providers and health paraprofessionals. This helps ensure that professionals in primary care and behavioral health settings are better equipped to identify and address gambling addiction.