Bill > HB399

This bill creates a new provision specifically allowing organizations affiliated with a professional major league baseball team playing home games in Baltimore City to conduct raffles under specific conditions. These organizations must be located in Baltimore City, spend a majority of their funds within the city for purposes like civic, fraternal, charitable, or athletic goals, and must obtain a written permit from a designated city agency. Unlike previous raffle regulations, this bill removes the typical limit of 12 raffles per year for these baseball-affiliated organizations, instead allowing unlimited raffles in conjunction with professional baseball games. Raffle tickets can be sold and received electronically, but only within the geographical boundaries of the baseball stadium and must use age-verification measures to ensure buyers are at least 18 years old. Tickets can only be sold starting one hour before the game and no later than the seventh inning. The organization must use geofencing technology to ensure electronic ticket sales occur only within the stadium's boundaries. The bill includes provisions preventing individuals from personally benefiting financially from the raffles and sets penalties for violations, including potential imprisonment up to one year or a fine up to $1,000. Notably, this law is set to be temporary, automatically expiring on May 31, 2028, after a three-year trial period.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0399?ys=2025RS