Alabama lawmaker Rep. Jim Hill has introduced House Bill 47, which aims to clarify the legality of paper raffles and bingo for charitable purposes in the state. The bill proposes a constitutional amendment that would allow the Legislature to authorize and regulate traditional paper raffles and bingo when conducted for noncommercial charitable purposes. This legislation comes in response to a cease and desist letter from Attorney General Steve Marshall’s office to an organization wanting to hold a raffle for children with autism, citing that such activities are illegal under current state law.
Hill believes that many organizations, such as athletic associations and band boosters, rely on raffles as a means of fundraising for various causes. The proposed amendment would provide clarity and allow these entities to continue their charitable endeavors without fear of legal repercussions. Hill emphasizes that the intent of the bill is not to promote or expand gambling in the state, but rather to support charitable efforts.
The 2025 legislative session is set to begin on Feb. 4, and Hill hopes that the debate around gambling legalization, which dominated the 2024 session and ultimately failed, will not resurface. He acknowledges the Attorney General’s interpretation that raffles are a game of chance but emphasizes that the purpose behind fundraisers is different from traditional gambling activities. Hill’s bill aims to provide a legal framework for charitable organizations to continue their efforts without facing legal challenges.
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