The Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC) has officially terminated its relationship with the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), joining the ranks of gaming regulators in Michigan and Nevada who oppose the NCPG's $2 million collaboration with Kalshi.
OCCC Executive Director Andromeda Morrison informed Legal Sports Report that Ohio was the first state to cut ties with the NCPG back in June.
“While I regret that this action was necessary, I hope the Commission's need to dissociate from organizations linked to illegal gambling in Ohio is understood,” Morrison stated.
Concerns Over NCPG's Funding Sources
Setting aside the debate about whether Kalshi provides sports betting, the primary issue revolves around how the NCPG can fulfill its mission to reduce the economic and social impacts of gambling addiction when it heavily relies on funding from industry operators.
Louis Ruggiero, a recovering gambling addict and host of the “Nothing’s Off the Table” podcast, argues that the NCPG’s reliance on industry donations undermines its credibility. “The NCPG claims that a donation isn’t an endorsement, but let’s be real. Kalshi didn’t donate out of goodwill; they are seeking influence with the one organization that holds weight in the problem gambling space. Ohio, Michigan, and Nevada all recognized this. It’s no coincidence that three regulators have walked away,” Ruggiero expressed.
Earlier this summer, Ruggiero succinctly put it: “You can’t hold the industry accountable when the industry is funding the conversation. It’s that straightforward. The NCPG should represent the voice of problem gamblers, yet those creating the issues are the ones writing the checks.”
He further noted, “No one criticizes their benefactor. Thus, the criticism becomes muted, and the dialogue more amicable. Meanwhile, the individual in crisis at 2 a.m. isn’t part of the conversation. They aren’t sponsors.”
Major sponsors of the NCPG’s 2026 Annual Conference in Nashville included Bally’s, FanDuel, DraftKings, and Caesars. NCPG Executive Director Heather L. Maurer defended the acceptance of industry funds as essential.
“These funds are vital as there is no dedicated federal funding for problem gambling prevention, treatment, or research in the U.S., despite the government collecting tax revenue from legalized gambling, which continues to grow,” Maurer explained. “This starkly contrasts with the billions allocated annually for issues related to alcohol, tobacco, and other substance use disorders.”
While the NCPG claims neutrality regarding legalized gambling, operators that offer VIP programs to entice high rollers suffering from gambling addiction cannot be viewed in the same light.
Chris Swett, a former trial attorney who lost a successful career due to gambling addiction, is currently awaiting a federal prison sentence. He shared that he attempted to quit multiple times, similar to many others, including Ruggiero. “I’d manage to stop for a week or two, only to receive enticing offers via email from my host, whether for sporting events or free entries,” he recounted.
There exists a fundamental contradiction in the fact that operators provide the majority of the NCPG’s funding while also being part of the problem.
“A sponsorship isn’t a commitment; it’s a receipt. It’s what they show when regulators or reporters inquire,” Ruggiero stated. “If they were genuinely dedicated to responsible gambling, their business model wouldn’t rely on those who can’t quit.”
As September marks responsible gambling month, it’s imperative for someone to take accountability for a system that is evidently flawed.