Gaming: bingo and charitable gaming; raffling off firearms at fundraisers on school grounds; prohibit. Amends sec. 5d of 1972 PA 382 (MCL 432.105d).
Impact
Another significant provision in HB5453 is the prohibition of including firearms as prizes in raffles held at schools. This amendment reflects a growing trend to promote safety in educational environments and addresses public concerns regarding gun violence. The definition of a 'school' within this context encompasses public and private institutions from kindergarten through the twelfth grade, but explicitly excludes home schools. This particular regulation aligns with broader public sentiment advocating for safer school settings, especially concerning events that may attract minors.
Summary
House Bill 5453 aims to amend the existing Traxler-McCauley-Law-Bowman Bingo Act, specifically focusing on regulations surrounding charitable gaming and raffles. The key provision of the bill allows qualified organizations to apply for an unlimited number of small and large raffle licenses, provided that only one small raffle license can be granted for a specific location on any given day. This aims to simplify and expand the capabilities of organizations that rely on raffles for fundraising, potentially increasing revenue for charitable activities.
Conclusion
Overall, HB5453 seeks to strengthen the framework governing nonprofit fundraising through raffles while ensuring safer practices in school environments. As it progresses, various stakeholders—including educators, parents, and nonprofit organizations—will need to engage in dialogue regarding the balance between fundraising capabilities and safety norms, which could shape the future of charitable gaming laws.
Contention
The discussions around HB5453 may involve points of contention regarding the regulation of charitable fundraising and the implications of broadening raffle licensing. Supporters argue that this change could empower community organizations and streamline fundraising efforts, especially in areas suffering from economic challenges. However, opponents may raise concerns over regulating the types of prizes offered, arguing that the restriction on firearms could limit the creativity and appeal of raffles, which traditionally may include a wider variety of prizes.
Gaming: bingo and charitable gaming; veteran's organization conducting a charity game using a video charity game dispenser; allow, and allocate proceeds. Amends sec. 7a of 1972 PA 382 (MCL 432.107a) & adds secs. 7e, 7f & 7g.
Gaming: bingo and charitable gaming; games conducted under the state bingo act; exempt from certain provisions of the penal code. Amends 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.1 - 750.568) by adding sec. 310g.