SENATE BILL REPORT

EHB 1053

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

As of March 16, 2009

Title: An act relating to raffle ticket prices.

Brief Description: Concerning raffle ticket prices.

Sponsors: Representatives Moeller, Williams, Conway, Wood, Chase and Hunt.

Brief History: Passed House: 2/27/09, 93-1.

Committee Activity: Labor, Commerce & Consumer Protection: 3/16/09.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON LABOR, COMMERCE & CONSUMER PROTECTION

Staff: Ingrid Mungia (786-7423)

Background: Washington's Gambling Act authorizes charitable and nonprofit organizations to conduct raffles to raise funds for the organizations' stated purposes. The organization must be organized for one of the purposes specified in statute, which include agricultural, charitable, educational, political, fraternal, or athletic purposes, and meet other requirements.

A raffle may be conducted as a licensed or unlicensed raffle. A license is required if (1) the gross revenue from all gambling fundraising conducted by the organization is more than $5,000 per year; (2) tickets are sold by someone other than a member of the organization; (3) tickets are sold at a discount; (4) firearms are awarded as prizes; and (5) in certain other cases. By rule, if the total value of raffle prizes offered in a year exceeds $80,000 or the retail value of a prize is $40,000 or more, Gambling Commission approval is required in addition to a license.

The maximum price of a raffle ticket is $25.

Summary of Bill: The maximum price of a raffle ticket is raised from $25 to $100.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.