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Bill

HB 1044

RELATING TO FUNDING ADJUSTMENTS FOR STATE PROGRAMS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Nadine Nakamura

The Arkansas Sports Raffle Act allows colleges to hold raffles for funding athletic programs and scholarships, enhancing financial support for student-athletes.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
#emergencyappropriations($) #funds
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Bill Summary · HB 1044

Summary of HB 1044: Arkansas Sports Raffle Act

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1044, titled the Arkansas Sports Raffle Act, was introduced to allow institutions of higher education and their affiliated nonprofit organizations to conduct raffles for educational, charitable, or philanthropic purposes. The bill aimed to create a legal framework for these raffles, distinguishing them from other forms of gambling regulated under existing laws.

Key Provisions

The bill included several important provisions:

  • Eligibility: Only institutions of higher education and their affiliated nonprofit organizations (referred to as "qualifying organizations") could conduct raffles.

  • Raffle Conditions:

    • Raffles must be based on official games or sporting events involving the qualifying organization's collegiate athletic teams.
    • Only one raffle is permitted per game or sporting event.

  • Conducting Raffles: Raffles could be conducted:

    • On digital or electronic devices.
    • Through online platforms, websites, or software applications.
    • On premises owned or leased by the qualifying organization.

  • Use of Funds: Proceeds from the raffles could be used for:

    • Payment of prizes.
    • Administrative costs related to the raffle.
    • Scholarships and financial aid for student-athletes.
    • General support for athletic programs and facilities.

  • Payment Methods: If credit cards were accepted for ticket purchases, a limit of $250 per transaction was established.

  • Restrictions:

    • Individuals under 18 years of age were prohibited from purchasing raffle tickets.
    • Casino licensees and their agents were barred from operating or administering raffles on behalf of qualifying organizations.

  • Legal Compliance: The bill clarified that these raffles would not be considered prohibited gambling activities under Arkansas law.

Impact

The Arkansas Sports Raffle Act was designed to benefit:
- Institutions of Higher Education: By providing a new funding source for athletic programs and scholarships.
- Student-Athletes: By potentially increasing financial support for their educational endeavors.

The bill was expected to enhance the public image of participating institutions and attract more students and financial support.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: November 21, 2024.
  • Amendments: The bill underwent at least one amendment (H1) to include the $250 transaction limit for credit card payments.
  • Status: The bill died in the House Committee at Sine Die adjournment on May 5, 2025, meaning it did not progress to a vote.

Conclusion

While HB 1044 aimed to establish a new avenue for fundraising through raffles for educational purposes, it ultimately did not advance through the legislative process. The bill's provisions highlighted a significant effort to support collegiate athletics in Arkansas while navigating existing legal frameworks surrounding gambling and lotteries.

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

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