The bill amends existing laws regarding raffles by establishing the Arkansas Sports Raffle Act, which allows institutions of higher education and their affiliated nonprofit organizations to conduct raffles for charitable, philanthropic, or educational purposes. It specifies that these raffles are not regulated by the Charitable Bingo and Raffles Enabling Act and introduces provisions that permit the use of digital or electronic devices for conducting raffles. Additionally, the bill outlines the purposes for which raffle funds can be utilized, including supporting student-athletes and enhancing the institution's athletic programs.

Furthermore, the bill modifies existing laws related to gambling and alcoholic beverages to include exceptions for raffles conducted under the Arkansas Sports Raffle Act. It clarifies that these raffles are not considered gambling under various provisions, thereby allowing institutions to operate them without facing penalties associated with gambling violations. The bill also declares an emergency, emphasizing the immediate need for these changes to support economic development and educational opportunities in Arkansas.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1044 V2 - 1-30-2025 10:08 AM: 23-114-103(c), 3-4-403(19), 3-5-221(d), 3-5-307(5), 3-9-236(15)
Old version HB1044 Original - 11-21-2024 08:49 AM: 23-114-103(c), 3-4-403(19), 3-5-221(d), 3-5-307(5), 3-9-236(15)
HB 1044: 23-114-103(c), 3-4-403(19), 3-5-221(d), 3-5-307(5), 3-9-236(15)