Relating to charitable raffles conducted by certain intercollegiate athletics teams; creating criminal offenses.
Impact
If passed, SB2239 would amend existing laws to allow for the sale of raffle tickets at athletic events, thereby creating new fundraising avenues for college sports teams. Teams would be permitted to conduct raffles during games, with restrictions ensuring ticket sales only happen on-site or through specific digital platforms, and only allowing sales to those physically present at the venue. The legislation is expected to enhance the financial capabilities of collegiate athletics programs and ensure that a portion of the proceeds is directed toward mental health initiatives.
Summary
SB2239, titled the Intercollegiate Athletics Team Charitable Raffle Enabling Act, seeks to authorize intercollegiate athletics teams in Texas to conduct charitable raffles. The bill establishes specific provisions that must be met for a team to qualify, including being associated with a Texas-based venue, existing for a minimum of three years, and being a federally recognized charitable organization. This legislation aims to assist these teams in generating revenue for charitable purposes, specifically for supporting other athletics teams and mental health services within their institutions.
Contention
There may be points of contention surrounding SB2239, particularly regarding concerns over gambling laws and the ethical implications of allowing college athletic programs, which typically do not permit direct gambling activities, to conduct raffles. Additionally, there are regulatory measures placed on the bill to maintain responsible oversight. For instance, individuals under 18 are prohibited from purchasing raffle tickets, and the bill includes criminal penalties for violations of raffle regulations. Discussions may emerge around the appropriateness of involving collegiate-level athletic teams in fundraising activities that resemble gambling.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Occupations Code
Chapter 2001. Bingo
Section: New Section
Chapter 2002. Charitable Raffles
Section: New Section
Chapter 2004. Professional Sports Team Charitablefoundation Raffles
Section: New Section
Finance Code
Chapter 280. Savings Promotion Raffle
Section: New Section
Human Resources Code
Chapter 31. Financial Assistance And Service Programs
Relating to the regulation of sports wagering; requiring occupational permits; authorizing fees; imposing a tax; decriminalizing wagering on certain sports events; creating criminal offenses; providing administrative penalties.
Relating to use of the name, image, or likeness of a student athlete participating in an intercollegiate athletic program at an institution of higher education.
Relating to the regulation of sports wagering; requiring occupational permits; authorizing fees; imposing a tax; decriminalizing wagering on certain sports events; creating criminal offenses; providing administrative penalties.
Provides relative to the compensation of intercollegiate athletes for the use of their name, image, or likeness. (gov sig) (EN INCREASE SG EX See Note)