Reno, Nevada, is expanding its responsible gambling infrastructure with the rollout of services from the Dr. Robert Hunter International Problem Gambling Center, which as of April 28, 2026, is deploying operations in the northern part of the state in response to rising cases linked to the growth of digital and land-based gambling. The initiative, led by executive director Stephanie Goodman, begins with telehealth support and limited in-person sessions, with plans to scale into a full Intensive Outpatient Program if local demand continues to increase.
The system operates under the state-funded Problem Gambling Fund, created through Senate Bill 357 of 2005 and regulated under NRS 458A, which allocates public resources to prevention, treatment and education on problem gambling.
The public health structure is managed by the Nevada Department of Human Services (DHS), led since January 5, 2026, by Laura Rich, through the Division of Public and Behavioral Health and the Bureau of Behavioral Health, Wellness and Prevention, which deliver community programs at effectively no cost to users.
Sthephanie Goodman & Laura Rich
The expansion comes within the largest gambling market in the United States. According to the Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB), chaired by Mike Dreitzer, the state generated approximately US$15.17 billion in gaming revenue over the 12 months ending February 2026. In Washoe County, where Reno is located, the market reached US$1.095 billion, while the Reno area generated US$789.6 million, with annual growth of about 4.9%. Oversight is handled by the NGCB and the Nevada Gaming Commission, under the Nevada Gaming Control Act (NRS Chapter 463).
Rising treatment demand reflects a structural shift in the market, with increased penetration of mobile sports betting, continuous access through digital devices and the emergence of formats such as prediction markets. In 2025 study by the UNLV International Gaming Institute estimates that around 15% of adults in Nevada are at risk of problem gambling.
The Reno expansion strengthens the sustainability of the sector, because it integrates prevention into the business model, improves the social traceability of gambling and reinforces the legitimacy of a highly regulated market that combines economic growth with active public health policies.
