SENATE BILL REPORT

HB 1682

BYRepresentatives Brough, Vekich, Patrick, Jacobsen, Cole, Leonard, Todd, O'Brien and Schoon

Revising provisions for fund raising events by bona fide charitable or nonprofit organizations.

House Committe on Commerce & Labor

Senate Committee on Economic Development & Labor

Senate Hearing Date(s):March 16, 1989; March 23, 1989; February 12, 1990; February 19, 1990

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Lee, Chairman; Anderson, Vice Chairman; McMullen, Matson, Saling, Smitherman, Warnke.

Senate Staff:Patrick Woods (786-7430)

                  February 19, 1990

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & LABOR, FEBRUARY 19, 1990

BACKGROUND:

Bona fide charitable or nonprofit organizations may conduct "fund raising events," which are commonly called casino nights, when licensed by the Gambling Commission.  "Fund raising events" include bingo, amusement games, contests of chance, lotteries, and raffles.  During any calendar year, an organization may conduct a maximum of two events each lasting not more than 24 consecutive hours, or one event during any 72 consecutive hours.  Net receipts (wagers less winnings) may not exceed $10,000 per year.  Amounts in excess must be returned to the participants.

Organizations may also jointly conduct a fund raising event.  The net receipts for the event may not exceed $10,000 and the net receipts each organization receives count against the individual $10,000 limitation.  In 1987, 11 organizations had net receipts in excess of $10,000.

SUMMARY:

The $10,000 annual limit on net receipts charitable or nonprofit organizations may receive from fund raising events is raised to $25,000.  The $10,000 limit on net receipts for an event conducted jointly is also raised to $25,000.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      requested

Senate Committee - Testified: Rep. Brough (pro)