Senate Bill No. 181, introduced by Senator Foil, amends existing laws regarding the licensing of charitable gaming activities, specifically focusing on nonprofit healthcare organizations. The bill defines a "nonprofit healthcare organization" as one that provides healthcare services and is affiliated with a licensed hospital, exempt from federal and state taxation. The bill also specifies that these organizations, along with their parent organizations, affiliates, subsidiaries, and foundations, will not be required to obtain a license to hold, operate, or conduct raffles, which is a significant change from current regulations.

In addition to the new definition, the bill amends several existing definitions related to charitable raffles, bingo, and keno licensing. It removes a notification requirement for nonprofit healthcare organizations and limits the exemption from licensure specifically to the operation of raffles. The changes are set to take effect on August 1, 2026, and aim to streamline the process for nonprofit healthcare organizations to engage in fundraising activities through raffles without the burden of licensing requirements.

Statutes affected:
SB181 Original: 4:707(E)(5)
SB181 Engrossed: 4:707(E)(5)
SB181 Reengrossed: 4:707(E)(5)