(20 ILCS 301/5-20)

Sec. 5-20. Gambling disorders.

(a) Subject to appropriation, the Department shall establish a program for public education, research, and training regarding gambling disorders and the treatment and prevention of gambling disorders. Subject to specific appropriation for these stated purposes, the program must include all of the following:

(1) Establishment and maintenance of a toll-free "800" telephone number to provide crisis counseling and referral services to families experiencing difficulty as a result of gambling disorders.

(2) Promotion of public awareness regarding the recognition and prevention of gambling disorders.

(3) Facilitation, through in-service training and other means, of the availability of effective assistance programs for gambling disorders.

(4) Conducting studies to identify adults and juveniles in this State who have, or who are at risk of developing, gambling disorders.

(b) Subject to appropriation, the Department shall either establish and maintain the program or contract with a private or public entity for the establishment and maintenance of the program. Subject to appropriation, either the Department or the private or public entity shall implement the toll-free telephone number, promote public awareness, and conduct in-service training concerning gambling disorders.

(c) Subject to appropriation, the Department shall produce and supply the signs specified in Section 10.7 of the Illinois Lottery Law, Section 34.1 of the Illinois Horse Racing Act of 1975, Section 4.3 of the Bingo License and Tax Act, Section 8.1 of the Charitable Games Act, and Section 13.1 of the Illinois Gambling Act.

(Source: P.A. 100-759, eff. 1-1-19; 101-31, eff. 6-28-19.)