Federal Bill Would Ban Slot Machines on US Military Bases Worldwide

Rep. Paul Tonko has proposed an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that would prohibit the operation of slot machines on military bases. This proposal addresses growing concerns over gambling addiction among service members.

While the Pentagon argues that the revenue generated by slot machines is essential for funding various recreational activities on bases, advocates against gambling highlight the risks and potential for addiction that these machines present.

Tonko's amendment is part of a larger legislative process. It is among over 1,300 proposed amendments to the NDAA. Typically, only a few hundred of these amendments are selected for a vote, a decision made by the House Rules Committee.

Background and Context

Slot machines on U.S. military bases have historically been contentious issues. Banned in 1951, they were removed from overseas Army and Air Force bases in the 1970s, only to be reintroduced less than a decade later.

This reintroduction aimed to prevent service members from seeking such entertainment off-base, where they might encounter more trouble.

• As of 2017, more than 3,000 slot machines are operational on military bases across 12 countries.

• The majority are located in Japan, South Korea, and Germany.

• These machines are typically placed in recreational areas such as bowling alleys and clubs.

Financial Impact and Risks

The financial impact of these slot machines is significant, generating over $100 million annually. This revenue is a critical funding source for recreational activities on bases, such as golf courses and youth centers.

However, concerns about gambling addiction persist.

• A 2001 Pentagon report found no broad negative effects but noted isolated incidents.

• A 2017 GAO report revealed that the military lacks systematic tracking of gambling addiction.

• A 2021 Rutgers University study found that service members and veterans are more than twice as likely to show signs of problem gambling as civilians.

Efforts Toward Regulation and Prevention

The National Council on Problem Gambling estimates that about 56,000 service members meet the criteria for a gambling disorder.

Following the GAO’s findings, Congress mandated that gambling disorder questions be included in annual health screenings.

• In 2022, 0.06% of active-duty members and 0.13% of reservists screened positive.

• Additionally, 1.6% of active-duty troops and 1.7% of reservists showed positive results in behavioral health surveys.

Rep. Tonko continues to advocate for gambling disorders to be treated like other addictions recognized in the DSM-5, such as those to heroin, tobacco, and alcohol. He has also introduced:

• A bill to ban online and electronic advertising of sports gambling.

• A plan for comprehensive legislation to regulate online sports betting companies more strictly.

• A call for greater funding and support for treatment programs addressing gambling addiction.

Tonko’s efforts underscore a broader commitment to protecting the well-being of U.S. service members. As the legislative process unfolds, the debate around his amendment will continue to weigh the balance between maintaining revenue for recreational activities and safeguarding the mental health of military personnel.