Military Gambling Awareness Committee formed by Kindbridge Research Institute

The Kindbridge Research Institute has introduced its new Military Gambling Awareness Committee (MGAC), which will aim to raise awareness and integrate protective measures surrounding gambling harm in the military population.  

Initiatives including educating stakeholders, promoting safe gambling practices and raising awareness will be implemented in collaboration with the Department of Defense (DoD) – which will supply data, information and other additional resources. The MGAC plans to take a data-based approach to its initiatives, with the overall goal of reducing stigma supporting the mental health of military community members.  

Dr. Nathan D. Smith, Executive Director of Kindbridge Research Institute, stated, “The establishment of the Military Gambling Awareness Committee marks a pivotal step in Kindbridge Research Institute’s mission to support the mental health and well-being of our service members. By bringing together a diverse group of experts, we aim to identify and address the gaps in current policies and provide comprehensive solutions that will enhance the overall health and readiness of our military personnel.” 

Earlier this month, it was revealed that Congress may consider a ban on slot machines from all military bases, in the interest of protecting servicemen and women from addiction. Slots were banned from military bases in the 1950s, before their gradual re-introduction in the 1970s.  

The gaming industry has been long intertwined with the military community; in 2022, MGM Resorts was also named among the top employers for military veterans in the USA.  

Also commenting on the formation of the MGAC was Mark Lucia, a Senior Military Research Associate at Kindbridge Research Institute and Chair of the Military Gambling Awareness Committee, who said, “Our military community faces unique challenges, and gambling-related harms can significantly impact the well-being and readiness of our service members.

“The Military Gambling Awareness Committee is committed to creating a proactive, informed environment where we can address these issues head-on, fostering a culture of awareness and support within the military.” 

Will Underwood

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