NCPG Director Heather Maurer Resigned
The leader of the National Council on Problem Gambling announced her departure amid organizational backlash.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Gambling
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Heather Maurer has resigned as the executive director of the National Council on Problem Gambling. The move follows months of criticism from members regarding a partnership with the prediction market firm Kalshi.
Why it matters
The organization's decision to accept a $2-million investment from Kalshi and launch a prediction market category alienated key stakeholders. This shift in policy led multiple state regulators and affiliates to cut ties with the non-profit.
The National Council on Problem Gambling accepted a $2-million investment from Kalshi in May 2026. This institution was originally established in 1972 to support those affected by gambling.
The players
Heather Maurer
She served as the executive director of the National Council on Problem Gambling beginning in early 2026.
National Council on Problem Gambling
This is a non-profit organization established in 1972 to advocate for programs and services for individuals with gambling problems.
Kalshi
This is a financial exchange and prediction market firm that invested $2 million into the National Council on Problem Gambling.
The details
Several state bodies, including the Michigan Gaming Control Board and the Ohio Casino Control Commission, withdrew their memberships in protest of the new prediction market initiative. The Nevada Council of Problem Gambling also severed its affiliation with the national group in August 2026.
Timeline
The National Council on Problem Gambling was founded in 1972.
Heather Maurer began serving as executive director in January 2026.
The organization accepted a $2-million investment in May 2026.
The Nevada Council of Problem Gambling cut ties in August 2026.
Maurer announced her resignation on September 26, 2026.
Culture Shift
The controversy highlights a widening rift between legacy problem-gambling advocacy groups and the burgeoning prediction market sector. This departure marks a pivotal moment as the organization struggles to reconcile its traditional mission with new revenue models.
The resignation means the national body will soon undergo a search for new leadership, potentially altering how resources are allocated to state-level programs. Consumers and stakeholders should monitor for future changes to the organization's policies regarding prediction market partnerships.
The takeaway
The exodus of state regulators and affiliates underscores the sensitivity surrounding financial ties between advocacy groups and gambling entities. Supporters of these programs should remain watchful to see if the organization reverses its stance on prediction markets under new leadership.
Further reading
For more on the current state of advocacy and regulation, read our Gambling section.
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