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LD 835

An Act To Allow Children To Participate In Beano Games Conducted By Nonprofit Charitable Organizations

132nd Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Sue Bernard and 1 co-sponsor

Bill would permit children to play bingo in nonprofit charitable fundraisers; rejected by Maine legislature as of May 2025.

Placed in the Legislative Files. (DEAD)
#bingo #children #gambling
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · LD 835

Legislative bill overview

LD 835 proposed allowing children to participate in bingo games (called "beano" in Maine) conducted by nonprofit charitable organizations. The bill would have modified existing gambling laws to permit minors to engage in these fundraising activities alongside adults.

Why is this important

Bingo is a significant fundraising mechanism for Maine nonprofits, including senior centers, veterans organizations, and community groups. Allowing children to participate could expand volunteer engagement and teach youth about charitable giving, though it also involves regulatory questions about gambling and child involvement in games of chance.

Potential points of contention

  • Gambling and minors: Concerns about the appropriateness of involving children in activities involving money and chance, even for charitable purposes
  • Regulatory clarity: Questions about how child participation would be supervised, what age groups qualify, and how winnings would be handled
  • Charitable fundraising alternatives: Debate over whether bingo is a necessary fundraising tool when other youth-friendly charitable activities exist

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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