New Hampshire Senate Bill SB316

New Hampshire 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/14/21
• Refer: 12/14/21
• Report Pass: 1/26/22
• Engrossed: 3/23/22
• Refer: 3/23/22
• Report Pass: 4/20/22
• Enrolled: 6/7/22
• Chaptered: 6/22/22
• Passed: 6/22/22

Caption

Relative to lucky 7 licenses.

Impact

The implications of SB316 on state regulations involve a change in how charitable organizations manage their gaming activities. The bill modifies the licensing requirements, thus allowing for the sale of lucky 7 tickets in a manner that is more aligned with the operational capacities of these organizations. This alteration could lead to an overall increase in fundraising efficiency, as charities won't be tethered to the bingo requirement that previously complicated their operations.

Summary

Senate Bill 316 (SB316) seeks to amend existing laws concerning the sale of lucky 7 tickets by charitable organizations. The bill permits these organizations to sell lucky 7 tickets at facilities licensed to conduct games of chance without the necessity of also hosting bingo games. This legislative action is particularly aimed at easing the operational constraints faced by charitable organizations, which often need to hold bingo events solely to sell lucky 7 tickets. By removing this requirement, the law is expected to streamline operations and potentially increase revenue for charities focused on this form of fundraising.

Contention

Notably, there are concerns regarding the potential decline of bingo revenues, as many charity groups may opt out of hosting bingo events now that their primary motivation for hosting them—the ability to sell lucky 7 tickets—has been negated. Critics argue that this could lead to reduced funding for community programs and services that traditionally benefit from bingo proceeds. Furthermore, the bill stipulates certain operational conditions for the sale of lucky 7 tickets, including financial reporting and inspection requirements to maintain transparency and accountability in charitable gaming activities.