TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – A national expert was at the Statehouse Thursday to highlight National Problem Gambling Awareness Week.

In Kansas some of the money generated by state-owned casinos must go to the Problem Gambling and Addictions Grant Fund. Two percent of this casino’s revenue goes to the fund and is to be used towards treatment services for addicts.

National activists traveled to the Capitol Thursday to criticize the state for using money in the account to fund other programs, including Medicaid.

However, recovery specialists confirm that the state does fund treatment for addicts.

At Valeo Behavioral Health Care in Topeka, the first 12 sessions for gambling addicts are free. Counselors, also say that no one seeking help will ever be turned away because they are unable to pay.

Recovery specialists say gambling addiction is under-reported because abusers must self-report.