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HB 47

Constitutional Amendment; noncommercial paper raffles and paper bingo for charitable purposes, authorized

2025 Regular Session

Alabama constitutional amendment authorizes nonprofit organizations to conduct paper raffles and bingo games for fundraising purposes.

Currently Indefinitely Postponed
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Bill Summary · HB 47

Legislative bill overview

HB 47 proposes a constitutional amendment to authorize noncommercial paper raffles and paper bingo games conducted by charitable organizations in Alabama. Currently, Alabama's constitution restricts gambling activities, and this amendment would create a specific exemption for these fundraising mechanisms. The bill has stalled in the legislative process and is currently indefinitely postponed.

Why is this important

Many charitable organizations rely on gaming-based fundraising to support their missions, and this amendment would legally enable a common fundraising practice currently prohibited in Alabama. The outcome affects nonprofits' revenue generation capacity and reflects broader policy debates about how states balance gambling restrictions with charitable fundraising needs.

Potential points of contention

  • Charitable organization definition: Disagreement over which organizations qualify as "charitable" and who monitors compliance with noncommercial requirements
  • Slippery slope concerns: Opposition that authorizing paper games creates pressure to legalize other gambling forms or commercial gaming operations
  • Enforcement and oversight: Questions about adequate regulatory mechanisms to prevent abuse, fraud, or expansion beyond stated noncommercial purposes

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

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