Adds instant bingo, a game of chance played by the selection of one or more predesignated paper or digital tickets, with winners determined by the appearance of a preselected designation on the ticket to GS 14-309.6 (definitions relating to bingo and raffles). Excludes instant bingo from beach bingo games and removes its exclusion from bingo game. Makes technical changes.
Broadens the organizations exempted from the GS 14-309.8 limits on bingo games to include organizations exempt from taxation under the IRS Code sections 501(c)(8) (fraternal benefit societies), 501(c)(10) (lodges), or 501(c)(19) (veterans’ organizations or their auxiliaries) (collectively, the Tax Exempt Organizations). Limits the maximum prize in cash or merchandise that may be offered for one game of instant bingo to $600 in GS 14-309.9. Makes technical changes. Stipulates in GS 14-309.10 that only the Tax Exempt Organizations can conduct instant bingo. Requires that paper instant bingo tickets comply with the standards for instant bingo tickets or cards established by the North American Gaming Regulators Association. Requires electronic instant bingo systems to be tested by an independent test laboratory and certified as compliant as specified prior to use. Expands the authorized use of sequestered funds received in connection with a bingo game under GS 14-309.11 to allow funds to be expended for materials related to conducting the raffles. Allows payments to be made by electronic funds transfer. Applies to bingo games conducted on or after October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Filed: 14-309.6, 14-309.8, 14-309.9, 14-309.10, 14-309.11