Leading sportsbooks BetMGM and FanDuel have joined forces with the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) to research problem gambling among active-duty military members and veterans.
Cory Fox, VP of Public Policy and Sustainability at FanDuel, stated, “Problem gambling disproportionately impacts our military communities and has life‑altering impacts on service members who do not receive treatment.
“We’re proud to stand with an industry coalition to ask that we support our service members and their families by adding gambling addiction as an eligible research topic in the Peer‑Reviewed Medical Research Program.”
Senators requested to invest in problem gambling research
The online sportsbook joined BetMGM and 24 state affiliates in signing a letter sent by the NCPG to Sen. Mitch McConnell and Chris Coons earlier this month. The letter calls for problem gambling to be included as an eligible research topic in the Peer-Reviewed Medical Research Program (PRMRP) as part of the FY26 defense appropriations bill.
“Despite the high prevalence and risk of gambling addiction amongst our service members and veterans, there is a lack of comprehensive research on how to best treat, intervene, and prevent this mental health issue within the military population,” the letter said.
“Strong bipartisan support for gambling addiction research for improved screening, treatment, and recovery will allow for lifesaving efforts for many of your constituents who have chosen to serve our country and their families.”
A 2023 study by the NCPG found that veterans and active service members experience gambling disorder at roughly double the rate of the general public. Additionally, veterans with gambling addiction have a six times higher rate of homelessness, and 40% of those who seek treatment have attempted suicide.
Currently, the PRMRP funds research into PTSD, traumatic brain injury, substance use, and depression, but not gambling addiction.
Sportsbooks investing in responsible gambling
FanDuel invested $100 million last year in responsible gambling programs and has worked with the NCPG in funding research, treatment, and prevention programs. The company also donated $150,000 to the International Center for Responsible Gambling (ICRG) for US-focused research.
A FanDuel spokesperson commented, “FanDuel remains steadfast in its commitment to leading the industry in responsible gaming, and we are proud to introduce industry‑first content and programs designed to destigmatize problem gambling and offer education on responsible play.”
The platform implements some safeguards, such as my spend, and real-time check‑in to raise awareness about the gambling habits of players. There are also options for users to set deposit, wager, time limits, timeouts, and self-exclusion.
However, the company has also been accused of encouraging problem gambling with misleading promotions, and faces a lawsuit in the city of Baltimore along with DraftKings over accusations of malpractice.
In addition to FanDuel, BetMGM also donated $360,000 to the ICRG to fund two research projects on gambling risk and prevention last year. The company also has similar responsible gambling options for players at its online platform, and partners with Kindbridge Behavioral Health and EPIC Global Solutions to promote gambling awareness.
Adam is an experienced writer with years of experience in the gambling industry. He has worked as a content writer and editor for five years on sites such as Oddschecker, CoinTelegraph and Gambling Industry News, bringing excellent knowledge of the world of sports betting and online gambling. Adam focuses on emerging stories in the ever changing landscape of betting in the US. Read the latest on prediction markets, changing legislation, and sweepstakes.
