The casino industry is worried that gambling disorders will no longer be considered a health issue.

Leaders of the American Gaming Association, Indian Gaming Association, National Council on Problem Gambling and Association of Gaming Equipment Manufactures on March 7 sent a letter to Congress to keep the language that is in the Affordable Care Act.

In part the letter says, “Today, gambling disorders are recognized under the ACA’s essential health benefits. We believe this recognition, which did not exist prior to the passage of ACA, is critical not only to enable adequate funding for research, but also to ensure necessary resources and treatment facilities are available.”

Problem gambling is listed with other addictive disorders in the ACA.

— Lake Tahoe News staff report