SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5770

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 February 14, 2011

Title: An act relating to raffles.

Brief Description: Concerning gross revenues for raffles held by certain bona fide charitable or bona fide nonprofit organizations.

Sponsors: Senators Holmquist Newbry, King, Stevens and Kohl-Welles.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Labor, Commerce & Consumer Protection: 2/17/11.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON LABOR, COMMERCE & CONSUMER PROTECTION

Staff: Edith Rice (786-7444)

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: they are otherwise in compliance with state law and commission regulations, the gross revenues from all raffles held by the organization during the calendar year do not exceed $5,000 and winners are determined only from among the regular members of the organization conducting the raffle.

Summary of Bill: Charitable and nonprofit organizations are authorized to conduct raffles without obtaining a license from the Gambling Commission if the gross revenues from all raffles held by the organization during the calendar year do not exceed $15,000. All other legal criteria regarding raffles remain the same.

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.