Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to permit professional sports team charitable foundations to conduct charitable raffles.
Impact
The proposed amendment is significant for state laws concerning charitable activities and fundraising procedures. If enacted, it would introduce a new avenue for professional sports teams in Texas to engage in fundraising through raffles held at their home venues during games. This change could enhance financial support for various charitable programs associated with these teams, thus potentially increasing community engagement and philanthropic efforts in the state.
Summary
HJR73 proposes a constitutional amendment that would authorize the Texas legislature to allow professional sports team charitable foundations to conduct charitable raffles. This amendment seeks to modify Section 47, Article III of the Texas Constitution, which currently imposes strict prohibitions on lotteries and gift enterprises with limited exceptions. The introduction of raffles specifically by professional sports team foundations is presented as a way to enable these entities to raise funds while maintaining oversight through general laws established by the legislature.
Sentiment
Overall sentiment regarding HJR73 appears to be cautiously optimistic among supporters, particularly those involved in professional sports and related charities. Advocates argue that this initiative could lead to increased funding for community services funded by sports teams' charitable foundations. However, there may be concerns over gambling implications and how the new raffles would be regulated, which could draw skepticism from opponents who fear it might blur the lines of acceptable gambling within the state.
Contention
Notable points of contention could arise around the ethical implications of allowing professional organizations to conduct raffles. Critics may view this as a potential normalization of gambling practices and may raise concerns about the accessibility and fairness of such raffles. Moreover, ensuring that the proceeds genuinely support charitable causes, rather than benefiting the teams' operational costs, will likely be a topic of scrutiny. Transparency in fundraising and how funds are utilized by these charitable foundations will be crucial for gaining public trust.
Enabled by
Relating to charitable raffles conducted by certain professional sports team charitable foundations; creating a criminal offense.
TX SJR39
Identical
Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to permit professional sports team charitable foundations to conduct charitable raffles.
Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to legalize wagering in this state on certain sporting events and requiring the legislature to dedicate to property tax relief at least 98 percent of the net state tax revenue generated from the wagering on sporting events.
Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the 88th Legislature to provide a cost-of-living adjustment to certain annuitants of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.