Legislation updating rules regarding raffle ticket payment approved by state Senate
The Pennsylvania Senate this week unanimously approved legislation that would allow eligible nonprofit organizations to accept electronic payments for raffle tickets.
Until now, groups like youth sports leagues, volunteer fire departments and VFWs could only take cash or checks for raffle tickets. By updating the small games of chance law, they will be able to take credit and debit cards, and use online platforms like PayPal or Venmo.
The measure has already been approved by the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, and it will become law once Gov. Josh Shapiro signs it.
State Sen. Devlin Robinson, a Bridgeville Republican, was a sponsor of the legislation, and he said the commonwealth’s nonprofit organizations “do incredible work in our communities, and we should make it easier for them to raise the funds they need to support their missions.”
He added, “As more people rely on electronic payments, our laws need to keep pace with the way people do business today. This legislation provides nonprofits with more convenient, modern fundraising options while maintaining important safeguards to ensure raffle ticket purchasers meet the legal age requirement.”
Under revised law, organizations would still have to verify raffle ticket purchasers are at least 18 years old. The measure also does not authorize live drawings or online gaming.