Marshall Bill to Allow 50/50 Raffles at Collegiate Sports Games Headed to Governor’s Desk
HARRISBURG – Legislation to give local charities additional avenues to raise money at certain sporting events was approved by the House Tuesday and is headed to the governor’s desk, said House Gaming Oversight Chairman Jim Marshall (R-Beaver/Butler), author of the bill.
House Bill 826 would expand a law enacted in 2012 that permitted nonprofit organizations affiliated with the Commonwealth’s major league sports teams to conduct 50/50 raffles at sports games. Marshall’s bill would allow the fundraising tool to be used at college and university sports games, at home games played by a United States Service Academy and at a team event (such as a practice, scrimmage or exhibition game).
“The 2012 law has proven to be an excellent tool for nonprofits to increase their charitable donations,” Marshall said. “Expanding these opportunities will have a positive impact on communities across the Commonwealth.”
Under the bill, half of the proceeds from raffle sales would go to the sports teams’ designated charity and the other half would go to the lucky fan holding the winning ticket.
Raffle rules specify that only one drawing may be held per event and tickets can only be sold to individuals over 18 years of age. Ticket sales would only be permitted within the arena/stadium and may be purchased with a credit/debit card. (Current law only allows for cash purchases.)
“Our Pittsburgh major league teams and their charity partners have seen great success with these raffles,” Marshall said. “The fans really enjoy the chance to win while contributing to a charitable cause.”
Representative Jim Marshall
14th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Abbey Haslam
717.260.6222
ahaslam@pahousegop.com
RepMarshall.com /
Facebook.com/RepMarshall