SENATE BILL REPORT

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.

As of January 30, 2012

Title: An act relating to raffles exceeding five thousand dollars.

Brief Description: Concerning raffles exceeding five thousand dollars.

Sponsors: Senators Holmquist Newbry and Kohl-Welles.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Labor, Commerce & Consumer Protection: 1/31/12.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON LABOR, COMMERCE & CONSUMER PROTECTION

Staff: Stephanie Christensen (786-7405)

Background: A raffle as defined in the Gambling Act is a game in which tickets bearing an individual number are sold for no more than $100 each and in which a prize is awarded on the basis of a drawing from the tickets by those conducting the game. The game is conducted by a bona fide charitable organization or a nonprofit organization and no person other than a member of the organization takes any part in the management or operation of the game. No part of the proceeds benefit anyone other than the organization conducting the game.

Charitable and nonprofit organizations are authorized to conduct raffles without obtaining a license from the Gambling Commission if they meet the following criteria:

The organization may provide unopened containers of beverages containing alcohol as raffle prizes if the appropriate permit has been obtained from the Liquor Control Board.

Summary of Bill: Raffles that exceed $5,000 may also be conducted pursuant to the provisions of this section if the organization obtains a license from the Gambling Commission.

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.