The bill amends Section 301 of the Michigan Penal Code, which addresses the acceptance of money or valuable items contingent on the outcome of races, contests, or uncertain events. The new language specifies that individuals who take or accept such payments, whether on their own behalf or as agents or employees, are guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for up to one year or a fine of up to $5,000. The bill also clarifies that this section does not apply to certain transactions that meet specific criteria, such as being incidental to a bona fide social relationship and having a maximum wager limit of $25 per individual.

Additionally, the bill outlines several conditions under which the exceptions apply, including limitations on the number of participants, the nature of the transaction, and the location where it occurs. These provisions aim to differentiate between illegal gambling activities and social games that are not intended for profit or commercial gain. Overall, the amendments seek to modernize the legal framework surrounding gambling in Michigan while providing clear guidelines for permissible social wagering.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 750.301