The bill amends existing laws regarding raffles by establishing the Arkansas Sports Raffle Act, which specifically allows institutions of higher education and their affiliated nonprofit organizations to conduct raffles for charitable, philanthropic, or educational purposes. The bill clarifies that the Charitable Bingo and Raffles Enabling Act will not regulate these raffles, thereby providing a legal framework for such activities. It also includes provisions that allow these raffles to be conducted through various means, including digital platforms, and outlines the permissible uses of the funds raised, such as supporting student-athletes and their educational endeavors.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing laws concerning gambling and alcoholic beverages to include exceptions for raffles conducted under the Arkansas Sports Raffle Act. This includes amendments to various sections of the Arkansas Code that previously prohibited certain forms of gambling, ensuring that the new raffle activities are not classified as illegal gambling. The bill declares an emergency, emphasizing the immediate need for these changes to support economic development and educational opportunities in the state.

Statutes affected:
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)
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)
HB 1044: 23-114-103(c), 3-4-403(19), 3-5-221(d), 3-5-307(5), 3-9-236(15)