New Laws Help Nonprofits Raise Money

State Rep. Mike Armanini recently voted in support of two new state laws that will allow our small games of chance (SGOC) license holders – including clubs, nonprofits, and fire and ambulance companies – to use more modern methods to raise money and continue supporting their communities.

Act 94 of 2026, formerly Senate Bill 416, will allow all SGOC license holders to accept credit and debit cards, as well as mobile payment services or other electronic online payments for raffles. Act 93 of 2026, formerly Senate Bill 398, will establish a pilot program for fire companies to conduct two online raffles in the upcoming year.

Prior laws limited nonprofits and fire companies with small games of chance licenses to only receive money for their fundraising efforts through cash or check, making it difficult for people to contribute. These new laws make payments more accessible, embrace new technology and broaden how these organizations are able to interact with their communities.

The new laws also increase the aggregate prize limit from $35,000 weekly to $60,000 weekly and change the distribution of proceeds for club licensees (those organizations with a liquor license) to 50% for public interest purposes and 50% for general operating expenses of the club.

Act 93 takes effect immediately, while Act 94 will take effect in late December.