HB 2776-S - DIGEST

(SUBSTITUTED FOR - SEE 2ND SUB)

Declares that it is the policy of the state of Washington to set a dedicated source of funding to increase treatment services for problem gamblers, training in the identification and treatment of problem gambling, public awareness and education regarding problem gambling, and specific education and treatment programs regarding problem gambling for adolescents.

Provides that, during the 2003-2005 fiscal biennium, the commission shall transfer five hundred thousand dollars from the gambling revolving fund to the problem gambling treatment account created in this act.

Provides that, during the 2003-2005 fiscal biennium, the commission shall transfer five hundred thousand dollars from the state lottery account, from funds allotted for promotion of lottery games, to the problem gambling treatment account created in this act.

Establishes a task force on funding the treatment of problem gambling.

Requires the task force to develop a recommendation to the legislature regarding: (1) The scope of the need for problem gambling prevention and treatment based on the experience of other states with problem gambling treatment programs and research findings;

(2) A mechanism for all who conduct legal gambling and gaming activities to contribute equitably to funding for prevention and treatment of problem gambling; and

(3) A mechanism to ensure that funding for treatment of problem gambling increases in proportion to increases in gambling activities.

Requires the task force to report its findings and recommendations to the legislature by December 1, 2004.

Appropriates the sum of one million dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, for the biennium ending June 30, 2005, from the problem gambling treatment fund to the department of social and health services for the purposes of the problem gambling program under RCW 43.20A.890.