State Senate Passes Charitable Gaming Act

The State Senate has passed the Charitable Gaming Act of 2017, which would allow non-profit charitable groups to sell raffle tickets online and accept debit or credit card payments for fundraising activities.

The legislation was co-sponsored by Senator Joseph Griffo.

The bill passed the Senate and Assembly last year, but the Governor vetoed it.  It was adjusted with additional amendments and will now be sent to the Assembly for their consideration.

“Every dollar that cannot be raised by a charity because of outdated limits on payment options is yet another dollar that cannot support the many services and programs that help meet the needs of our community,” said Griffo. "Not everyone carries around cash all the time, allowing online and debit or credit payments would make it more convenient for people to give to these charity raffles. We were so close to updating the law last year, so I am hopeful that the Assembly and Governor will join us in helping our charities and volunteer groups raise the funds they desperately need.”