The bill revises Montana's gambling laws to allow nonprofit organizations, colleges, universities, and school districts to accept credit cards for raffle ticket purchases. It introduces new legal language that defines "credit gambling" and "internet gambling," specifically permitting credit card payments for raffles conducted by these entities while maintaining that credit gambling is generally prohibited except as outlined in the new provisions. The bill also updates the definitions of "internet gambling" to encompass raffles where tickets can be purchased with credit cards, thereby broadening the payment options available for these organizations.

Additionally, the bill permits nonprofit organizations to sell raffle tickets outside of Montana, provided such sales are legal in the purchaser's jurisdiction. It establishes that, aside from raffles sponsored by the specified entities, credit card purchases for raffle tickets are not allowed, and any online raffle advertisements must clearly communicate this restriction along with the organization's name and relevant terms. The new provisions will take effect on June 1, 2025, ensuring clarity and compliance with the updated regulations.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 23-5-112, 23-5-157, 23-5-413
HB0141_1(1): 23-5-112, 23-5-157, 23-5-413
HB0141_1(2): 23-5-112, 23-5-157, 23-5-413
HB0141_1(3): 23-5-112, 23-5-157, 23-5-413
HB0141_1(4): 23-5-112, 23-5-157, 23-5-413
HB0141_1(5): 23-5-112, 23-5-157, 23-5-413
HB0141_1(6): 23-5-112, 23-5-157, 23-5-413
HB0141_1(7): 23-5-112, 23-5-157, 23-5-413
HB0141_1: 23-5-112, 23-5-157, 23-5-413