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H 2416

An Act relative to gambling addiction

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Carole Fiola and 1 co-sponsor

Bill H 2416 enhances gambling addiction support in Massachusetts by improving medical screenings, forming a commission for research, and boosting public education on treatment options.

Committee recommended ought to pass and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · H 2416

Summary of Bill H 2416: An Act Relative to Gambling Addiction

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 2416 aims to address the growing concern of gambling addiction in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The legislation seeks to establish a comprehensive approach to problem gambling through enhanced screening, research, and public education. By creating a special commission, the bill intends to investigate and study the prevalence of gambling addiction and develop effective prevention and treatment strategies.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant amendments and provisions:

  1. Amendments to Medical Screening:

    • The bill proposes amendments to various sections of the General Laws (Chapter 32A, Chapter 118E, Chapter 175, and Chapter 176G) to include questions related to gambling habits and frequency in medical screenings. This aims to ensure that healthcare providers are better equipped to identify individuals at risk of gambling addiction.

  2. Establishment of a Special Commission:

    • A special commission will be formed, consisting of:
      • 1 member from the Senate (co-chair)
      • 1 member from the House of Representatives (co-chair)
      • Ex officio members from the Departments of Public Health, Mental Health, Insurance, and Medicaid
      • 13 appointees by the Governor, including representatives from various organizations related to gambling and mental health.
    • The commission's responsibilities include:
      • Assessing current research and best practices for prevention, detection, and treatment of problem gambling.
      • Reviewing existing policies on medical screenings for gambling addiction.
      • Developing educational materials and referral lists for treatment.
      • Assisting in applications for federal funding to support gambling addiction initiatives.

  3. Reporting and Recommendations:

    • The commission is required to meet at least monthly and must file an annual report by June 30, 2026, detailing its findings and recommendations. This report will be submitted to the Governor and the General Court, along with any proposed legislation to enhance public awareness and treatment of gambling addiction.

Who Would Be Affected

The bill primarily affects:
- Individuals at risk of or suffering from gambling addiction, who will benefit from improved screening and treatment options.
- Healthcare providers, who will receive guidance on incorporating gambling-related questions into their screenings.
- State agencies and organizations involved in public health and mental health services, which will be supported in their efforts to address gambling addiction.

Procedural Aspects and Timeline

  • Introduced: February 27, 2025
  • Current Status: Discharged to the committee on House Rules as of November 12, 2025.
  • Key Dates:
    • Hearing scheduled for June 11, 2025.
    • The commission must hold its first meeting within 30 days of the bill's effective date and file its first report by June 30, 2026.

Conclusion

Bill H 2416 represents a proactive step towards addressing gambling addiction in Massachusetts by establishing a framework for research, education, and improved medical screening practices. Through the formation of a dedicated commission, the bill seeks to enhance the state's response to this pressing public health issue.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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