Jun. 14, 2016
HARRISBURG – In an effort to help licensed community groups raise needed funds, the House of Representatives today overwhelmingly approved legislation to update the state’s Bingo Law, said Rep. Kate Klunk (R-York), author of the bill.
The Bingo Law was enacted by the state Legislature in 1981, and has remained mostly unchanged since its enactment.
“A lot has changed since 1981, especially the value of a dollar,” Klunk said. “Local organizations that rely on bingo for fundraising are struggling to bring in the funds they once did, and the state law pertaining to the game is not helping its revival.”
House Bill 1334 would increase limits for prize payouts from $250 to $500 for any one game of bingo; from $2,000 to $4,000 for jackpot games; and from $4,000 to $8,000 for total amount of prizes awarded in a calendar day.
“As a member of the House Gaming Oversight Committee, I’ve had the opportunity to hear concerns about bingo from nonprofit organizations across the state and within the 169th District,” Klunk said. “These groups have asked the Legislature to give them ability to offer bigger prizes and to adapt the game to retain and attract new players.”
Additionally, Klunk’s bill would remove restrictions on the number of days a licensed association may conduct bingo games, permit pre-draw bingo, allow new members of a licensed association to assist in the operation of bingo, authorize non-members to call numbers and permit bingo prize amounts to be advertised.
“Many of our nonprofit community groups that hold bingo fundraisers are struggling with declining membership and funds,” Klunk said. “Their fundraising efforts, which directly benefit our communities, should no longer be needlessly hindered by outdated regulations.”
House Bill 1334 now moves to the Senate for consideration.
Representative Kate A. Klunk
169th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Abbey Haslam
ahaslam@pahousegop.com
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