SEARCH NEWS:

 

California Bill Makes Nonprofit Gaming a Safer Bet

"A little-known state law prohibits nonprofits or anyone else from hosting poker, Pai Gow or any tile or card games outside of a licensed casino or cardroom — even if you're just playing for funny money.

"'The fact that you are conducting a controlled game in an unauthorized location makes it illegal in our view,' said Tom Dresslar, a spokesman for Attorney General Bill Lockyer.

"There has been no coordinated crackdown, he said. But several Northern California nonprofits began canceling events last year after getting letters and calls from the state Department of Justice, according to published reports.

"...nonprofits would catch a break under a bill the Legislature passed last week that allows for a limited number of casino nights.

"...The legislation would allow nonprofits to host one casino night a year. Players could compete for noncash prizes of up to $500 per prize and $5,000 per event. To be eligible, nonprofits must be in existence for at least three years. Also, a single location could not host more than four casino nights a year, except in rural areas..."

< Gaming News