North Dakota House Bill HB1296

North Dakota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/23
• Refer: 1/11/23
• Refer: 2/1/23
• Report Pass: 2/15/23
• Engrossed: 2/17/23
• Refer: 2/20/23
• Report DNP: 3/29/23

Caption

Approval for a gaming site authorization and modification of allowable expense limits.

Impact

One of the significant changes brought about by HB1296 is the modification of allowable expense limits tied to the adjusted gross proceeds of gaming operations. Under the newly proposed regulations, organizations can deduct a higher percentage of their adjusted gross proceeds as allowable expenses depending on the total revenue generated. This aims to increase the financial viability of local charitable organizations engaged in gaming while ensuring compliance with state law.

Summary

House Bill 1296 seeks to amend the existing regulations surrounding gaming activities within North Dakota by clarifying the approval process for gaming site authorizations and adjusting the limits on allowable expenses for charitable organizations conducting gaming activities. The bill stipulates that eligible organizations must first secure a lease for a gaming site, then gain approval from the relevant city or county governing body. Furthermore, the governing body cannot require these organizations to donate a certain portion of their proceeds to local services as a prerequisite for authorization.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1296 appears to lack widespread support, as evidenced by its voting history. The bill faced significant opposition during its Senate reading, with a recorded vote of 2 in favor and 42 against. This disparity suggests that legislators may have concerns about the implications of easing regulations on gaming and how it could affect community governance and charitable funding within their jurisdictions.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding the bill include the balance between facilitating charitable gaming versus maintaining adequate oversight by local governments. Critics may argue that loosening restrictions on site authorizations and allowable expenses could lead to misuse of funds or foster a competitive disadvantage for non-gaming charitable entities. Additionally, the requirement that a site authorization not be contingent on prior gaming activities may also be viewed as a potential loophole or reduction in regulatory scrutiny.