Bill > SB2239

This bill creates a new legal framework for intercollegiate athletics teams to conduct charitable raffles during their home games, with specific regulations and restrictions. Under this law, an intercollegiate athletics team can conduct a raffle at their home venue if they meet certain qualifications, such as being associated with a higher education institution, having a 501(c)(3) tax status, and not distributing income to members beyond reasonable compensation. The raffles must be conducted with several key provisions: tickets can be sold only at the venue or through digital media to people physically present in the venue, only employees or volunteers can sell tickets, purchasers must be at least 18 years old, and a third-party vendor must verify age. The raffle can award a cash prize up to 50% of ticket sales, and proceeds must be allocated with at least 20% going to mental health services at the institution and the remainder to charitable purposes. The bill also establishes criminal offenses for selling tickets to minors, purchasing tickets with certain financial assistance funds, or misrepresenting one's age. Importantly, the bill will only take effect if a related constitutional amendment authorizing such raffles is approved by voters in 2025, making it contingent on broader voter approval.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB2239