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Bill

SB 538

Baltimore City - Raffles - Organizations Affiliated With Professional Baseball and Football Teams

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Cory McCray

SB 538 permits Baltimore professional baseball and football team-affiliated organizations to conduct raffles for fundraising purposes under Maryland gaming regulations.

Passed Enrolled
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 538

Legislative bill overview

SB 538 would authorize organizations affiliated with professional baseball and football teams in Baltimore City to conduct raffles as fundraising activities. The bill specifically permits these sports-affiliated organizations to hold raffles under Maryland's gaming regulations, creating a new exception or streamlined approval process for such entities.

Why is this important

Raffles generate significant revenue for nonprofit organizations and community groups, and this bill would provide Baltimore's professional sports-affiliated organizations (likely the Orioles and Ravens organizations) with fundraising tools. The measure could increase charitable contributions to youth programs, community initiatives, and sports development activities tied to these major employers and cultural institutions.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue allocation concerns: Questions about whether raffle proceeds genuinely support community programs or primarily benefit team operations and corporate entities
  • Competitive fairness: Other nonprofits and fundraising organizations may view this as preferential treatment for well-resourced sports organizations that could compete for the same donor pool
  • Regulatory oversight: Debate over whether existing raffle regulations adequately protect participants and ensure funds reach intended beneficiaries, or if sports organizations need different oversight standards

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

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