New Mexico 2023 Regular Session

New Mexico House Bill HB253

Introduced
1/31/23  
Report Pass
2/15/23  
Report Pass
2/23/23  
Engrossed
2/28/23  
Report Pass
3/10/23  
Enrolled
3/14/23  
Chaptered
4/5/23  

Caption

Nonprofit Gaming Changes

Impact

The introduction of this bill is expected to impact the existing legal framework surrounding gaming licenses for nonprofits, particularly in how much revenue they can generate through gaming activities. By permitting longer operational hours, the bill aims to increase the revenue potential for these organizations, which in turn could benefit local communities through enhanced funding for charitable causes. However, it also necessitates a reassessment of the current gaming tax structures to ensure continued compliance and transparency in financial reporting.

Summary

House Bill 253 proposes changes to the regulations governing nonprofit gaming operations in New Mexico. The bill specifically addresses the operating hours for nonprofit organizations holding gaming licenses, allowing them to operate gaming machines for any consecutive twelve hours per day of their choosing. Additionally, it adjusts the net take percentage that nonprofit organizations can retain from gaming activities, ensuring a portion is allocated for charitable or educational purposes. This adjustment is intended to enhance the ability of these organizations to generate revenue for community benefit.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB253 appears largely positive among supporters, who view the changes as beneficial for nonprofit organizations reliant on gaming revenues. They argue that extending operational hours and allowing for a higher net take percentage will enable nonprofits to better serve their communities. However, there are concerns expressed by some legislators regarding the potential for increased gaming activity to lead to social issues, including gambling addiction, necessitating careful monitoring of the outcomes resulting from this bill.

Contention

Notable contention arises from the balance between enhancing nonprofit revenues through gaming and the associated risks of promoting gambling within communities. While supporters emphasize the charitable benefits of allowing nonprofits to maximize their gaming potential, opponents caution that such changes could inadvertently exacerbate issues related to compulsive gambling. They advocate for safeguards to ensure that while nonprofits benefit financially, adequate measures are in place to protect vulnerable populations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NM HB159

Gaming Expenses Calculation

NM HB301

Gaming Operator License Rate Differential

NM SB328

Racetrack & Gaming Operator Licensing

NM HB241

Gaming Act Definition Changes

NM SB410

Racetrack Gaming License Changes

NM HB309

Nonprofit Gaming Machine Max Award

NM SB336

Use Of Racetrack Funds For Insurance

NM SB323

Horse Racing Group, Gaming & Audits

NM SB143

Nonprofit Gaming Machine Payouts

NM SB543

Bingo; certain provisions relating to bingo games operated by nonprofit, tax-exempt organizations; change

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