GAO Flags Pentagon’s Shortfalls on Gambling Addiction in the Military
The Pentagon is falling behind when it comes to protecting its own service members from gambling-related harm. That’s the conclusion of a new report by the Government Accountability Office (GAO), which says the Department of Defense (DOD) lacks both a plan and a sense of accountability in tackling gambling disorders, despite mounting evidence that the problem is real and growing.
A Blind Spot in Policy
The GAO review shows that the DOD updated its substance use guidelines earlier this year to acknowledge gambling addiction, but stopped short of assigning responsibility for implementing them. Without clear lines of authority, essential services such as medical treatment, screening, and even annual training have been left in limbo. The auditors also noted that none of the individual service branches have brought their policies up to date, leaving prevention efforts fragmented and incomplete.
The gap is particularly concerning given how accessible gambling is within the armed forces. Slot machines continue to operate on overseas bases under Army, Air Force, and Navy programs that brought in $91 million last year. Yet soldiers who have already shown signs of gambling problems are not restricted from using the machines, and gaming areas often lack even basic signage warning of addiction risks or offering help resources. Inconsistent rules across military branches mean responsible gambling practices are more a matter of chance than policy.
The Human Toll
Numbers from 2024 show the problem is far from hypothetical. A total of 185 active-duty personnel were diagnosed with gambling disorders, though auditors believe the true figure is higher because many avoid seeking help. Survey data revealed that nearly five percent of respondents admitted lying about their gambling or feeling compelled to bet more, while close to three percent said they felt anxious and irritable when trying to stop. The connections to wider health challenges are stark: more than half of those who gambled reported symptoms of depression or anxiety, with some also battling substance use disorders.
The GAO also drew a straight line between gambling and military readiness. Citing earlier studies, the watchdog warned that addiction leaves service members vulnerable to financial collapse, mental health crises, and even suicide—outcomes that not only harm individuals but also undermine the effectiveness of the force.
In its report, GAO issued nine recommendations, with a central demand that the Defense Health Agency step up as the lead on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Each military branch is expected to update its policies, while DHA is tasked with providing detailed guidance that spells out roles and responsibilities across the system. The Pentagon has accepted the findings and promised to act, though whether real change follows remains to be seen.
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