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HJR 794

Constitutional Amendments - Proposes an amendment to Article XI, Section 5 of the Constitution of Tennessee, to allow for bingo games conducted by 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(19) organizations to meet a charitable, nonprofit, or community service purpose. -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Johnny Shaw

Tennessee constitutional amendment permits 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(19) nonprofits to operate bingo games for charitable fundraising purposes.

Intro., ref. to State & Local Government Committee
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Bill Summary · HJR 794

Legislative bill overview

HJR 794 proposes amending Tennessee's Constitution to permit bingo games operated by qualified charitable organizations (501(c)(3) and 501(c)(19) nonprofits) as a fundraising mechanism. Currently, Tennessee's constitution restricts bingo operations, and this amendment would carve out an exception for eligible nonprofits aligned with charitable purposes.

Why is this important

Bingo fundraising is a traditional revenue source for nonprofits nationwide, and this amendment would unlock a potential funding stream for Tennessee charities without requiring a full constitutional overhaul. Many states allow nonprofit bingo as a low-risk fundraising tool; this change could significantly impact smaller organizations' ability to generate unrestricted revenue for their missions.

Potential points of contention

  • Gambling expansion concerns: Opponents may argue this opens the door to normalizing gambling and could lead to future expansion of gaming privileges to other entities
  • Regulatory enforcement questions: Unclear oversight mechanisms—who ensures bingo operations remain legitimate, prevent fraud, or address problem gambling issues among participants
  • Narrowness of scope: Some may question why only 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(19) organizations qualify, or whether other nonprofit classifications deserve equal access

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

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