What's Happening?
The Center for Addiction Science, Policy and Research (CASPR) has terminated its lobbying contract with Tenagrity Solutions LLC. This decision comes as CASPR's federal agenda expanded from addiction medicine to include prediction-market regulation. The organization
had been lobbying for reforms in substance use disorder treatments and supported H.R. 7840, the Event Contract Enforcement Act. This bill, co-sponsored by Rep. Blake Moore (R-UT) and Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-CA), seeks to prohibit event contracts related to war, terrorism, assassination, elections, government conduct, and gaming, viewing them as forms of gambling. The termination of the contract marks the end of a steady decline in lobbying expenditures, with no income reported for the third quarter of 2026.
Why It's Important?
The termination of the lobbying contract highlights a shift in CASPR's strategic focus and financial constraints. The organization's support for the Event Contract Enforcement Act underscores a broader concern about the addictive nature of gambling-related activities. This legislative effort could have significant implications for industries involved in event contracts, potentially affecting their operations and revenue streams. The move also reflects a growing trend of addressing addiction through regulatory measures, which could influence future policy decisions and public health strategies.
What's Next?
With the lobbying contract ended, CASPR will need to find new champions within the House Appropriations Committee to advance its agenda, particularly regarding the fiscal year 2027 appropriations cycle. The organization may also seek alternative funding sources or partnerships to continue its advocacy efforts. The outcome of the Event Contract Enforcement Act will be closely watched by stakeholders in the gambling and prediction markets, as its passage could lead to significant regulatory changes.
