NY S00409

Establishes a 13-member problem gambling advisory council within the mental hygiene law to make findings and recommendations to the governor and legislature on preventing and treating problem gambling in New York State.

Council composition includes the commissioner of the office of addiction services and supports, the gaming commission chair, and 11 appointed members (4 from senate majority, 4 from assembly majority, 1 from each minority leader, and 1 from the governor), with at least 2 members from each chamber being community-based behavioral health services providers.

Council must meet at least twice per year and shall develop strategies for problem gambling prevention and treatment access, increase public awareness, recommend allocations of machine and table fees to fund these efforts, and examine the impact of mobile sports betting on problem gambling services.

Requires the council to submit an annual report to the governor and legislature by October 1st each year, beginning no later than the first October after the law takes effect.

Appointed members serve four-year terms without compensation but receive reimbursement for expenses, and may designate representatives to attend meetings and vote on their behalf.