Compulsive and problem gambling programs could soon be established through Rhode Island’s State Lottery Division, based on legislation working its way through the General Assembly.

Senate Bill 2496 recently received unanimous support from all 35 of Rhode Island’s senators and is currently in the hands of a panel within the House of Representatives.

However, it remains uncertain when the state House will cast a vote on SB2496. The House Committee on State Government and Elections on May 31 had the bill on its agenda, though it was held for further study with minimal discussion.

The legislation, which was adopted on the Senate floor May 19, proposes Rhode Island’s two casinos – Bally’s Tiverton and Bally’s Twin River Lincoln – reimburse and pay the State Lottery Division no less than $200,000 annually for the programs.