This bill amends Minnesota Statutes to allow townships to regulate lawful gambling, which was previously limited to statutory or home rule charter cities and counties. Specifically, it permits townships to assess an annual investigation fee on organizations applying for gambling permits, with the fee structure mirroring that of cities. The bill also grants townships the authority to adopt more stringent regulations regarding lawful gambling, including the ability to prohibit it entirely, and requires local approval from township boards for initial premises permits.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for townships to impose a local gambling tax on licensed organizations operating within their jurisdiction, with the tax capped at three percent of gross receipts from lawful gambling. It mandates that any revenue generated from this tax must be used to cover costs associated with regulating gambling and requires annual reporting to the board on the revenue and its use. Overall, the bill expands the regulatory framework for lawful gambling to include townships, enhancing local governance and oversight in this area.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 349.16, 349.213