This bill would require the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services to study gambling disorder — a recognized behavioral addiction. No federal agency currently funds or guides research on gambling disorder. Since the Supreme Court allowed states to legalize sports betting in 2018, 38 states have done so. The bill calls for research into causes, long-term effects, and the role of online and app-based gambling. Introduced May 21, 2026, and referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
If passed, federal health officials would study gambling disorder. Houston residents who gamble or know someone who does may be affected by what this research finds or funds in the future.
