Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

State Government & Tribal Affairs Committee

SB 6465

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.

Brief Description: Concerning raffles exceeding five thousand dollars.

Sponsors: Senators Holmquist Newbry and Kohl-Welles.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Allows raffles that exceed $5,000 in gross revenues to be conducted pursuant to a statutory section permitting members-only raffles as long as a license from the Gambling Commission is obtained.

Hearing Date: 2/16/12

Staff: Cece Clynch (786-7195).

Background:

A raffle is an event where tickets are sold and prizes are awarded based on a random drawing. In general, only certain charitable and nonprofit organizations are permitted to offer raffles. Organizations must be organized or operated for one of the following purposes: agricultural; athletic; charitable; civic; educational; fraternal; patriotic; political; or social. Agricultural fairs, fraternal societies, religious societies, churches, and granges also qualify. There are also some circumstances under which credit unions, cities, counties, and towns, and executive branch state employees may offer raffles.

Some raffles require a license from the Gambling Commission (Commission) and others do not:

Summary of Bill:

Raffles that exceed $5,000 may be conducted pursuant to the statutory section pertaining to members-only raffles, as long as a license is obtained from the Commission.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.