Texas Senate Bill SB2239

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/11/25

Caption

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
  • Section: New Section

Penal Code

• Chapter 47. Gambling
  • Section: 02