Texas Senate Bill SB919

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to ticket sales for charitable raffles conducted by the charitable foundations of certain professional sports teams.

Impact

The bill modifies existing statutes regarding charitable gambling by widening the scope of sale locations for raffle tickets. Previously restricted to physical venues, the inclusion of digital sales channels could significantly increase participation and revenue for these charitable foundations. It allows teams to reach a larger audience while ensuring that ticket purchases remain within the state, thus enhancing compliance with state laws governing raffle activities.

Summary

SB919 pertains to the regulation of ticket sales for charitable raffles conducted by certain professional sports teams' charitable foundations. The bill outlines the provisions under which raffle tickets can be sold at the home venue of the associated professional sports teams or through digital platforms, including websites and mobile applications. This shift toward digital sales presents a notable change, aiming to modernize fundraising efforts for charitable events related to sports teams.

Contention

One notable point of contention that may arise from this bill involves the balancing act between promoting charitable fundraising and ensuring responsible gambling practices. Advocates of the bill might argue that enabling digital sales is essential for the financial health of such foundations, especially in an increasingly digital world. However, concerns may exist regarding potential overreach or misuse of these provisions, prompting discussions about regulatory oversight to safeguard against any unintended consequences.