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.
The proposed legislation impacts the existing laws surrounding the conduct of charity games, particularly by allowing qualified organizations to retain a greater percentage of proceeds from the sales of charity game tickets. Notably, 45% of the proceeds will directly fund the conducting organization, enhancing their ability to support various causes. The bill also establishes the Charity Game Veterans Fund to support veteran-related initiatives, reflecting a focus on aiding veterans through charity endeavors, while creating a sustainable funding source for the Michigan charity gaming service fund for future operational needs.
House Bill 5085 aims to amend the Traxler-McCauley-Law-Bowman bingo act of 1972 to enhance the framework for charity games conducted by qualified organizations in Michigan. The bill proposes the introduction of charity game ticket dispensers that utilize video technology to display game results, modernizing the process and engaging younger audiences. Furthermore, the bill delineates rules on the sale of tickets and their profit distribution, which is crucial for both organizational sustainability and regulatory compliance.
However, the bill has sparked some debate among stakeholders about the potential impact of these changes. While proponents argue that modernizing charity games will lead to increased revenues for nonprofits and veterans, critics raise concerns about regulation compliance and the possibility of increased gambling activities. There are apprehensions that the introduction of video dispensers may pave the way for more controversial gaming practices. Additionally, establishing clear percentages for profit distribution remains a contentious issue, with expectations that stakeholders will want to ensure sufficient oversight and fairness in fund allocations.