North Dakota Senate Bill SB2154

North Dakota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/6/23
• Refer: 1/6/23
• Report Pass: 2/7/23
• Engrossed: 2/9/23
• Refer: 2/17/23
• Report Pass: 3/7/23
• Enrolled: 3/10/23
• Passed: 3/15/23

Caption

Organizations with local permits to conduct charitable gaming.

Impact

If enacted, SB2154 will directly affect the existing charitable gaming regulations, ultimately aiming to streamline how organizations can operate under local permits. By allowing organizations to conduct games under specific conditions, such as physical separation from other gaming operations and the potential for waivers for more sites, the bill seeks to enhance the flexibility and availability of charitable gaming activities across the state. Moreover, it preserves protective measures regarding age restrictions to ensure that younger individuals are not allowed to participate in certain gaming activities.

Summary

Senate Bill 2154 aims to amend the current North Dakota Century Code concerning organizations with local permits to conduct charitable gaming. The bill proposes changes to the regulations surrounding how and when such organizations can operate, particularly emphasizing the conditions under which multiple organizations can conduct games at authorized sites. It introduces specific hours of operation aligned with the dispensing of alcoholic beverages and establishes clearer guidelines on venue capacities for gaming organizations.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB2154 appears largely supportive among legislators, as indicated by the significant majority vote—85 in favor to just 8 against during the House second reading. This suggests a broad consensus that the proposed changes will be beneficial in promoting charitable activities through gaming. However, there may be underlying concerns regarding how these changes could impact the dynamics of local gaming organizations and the enforcement of regulations.

Contention

Despite its favorable reception, the bill does face some contention regarding its specific provisions, especially around the separation of areas for different gaming activities and the potential for organizations to request suspensions of their licenses. These stipulations may lead to debates about the effectiveness of regulation enforcement and whether they adequately protect the interests of the general public. This aspect will likely require further scrutiny as the bill progresses, ensuring that local needs and community standards are not overlooked.