Trenton – In an effort to expand fundraising opportunities for nonprofit organizations, the Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism, and Historic Preservation Committee today passed legislation sponsored by Senators Loretta Weinberg and Tom Kean, which would propose a constitutional amendment to allow organizations to use proceeds from games of chance to benefit their organization.

“In 2013, New Jersey voters agreed to allow veteran’s groups to keep some of the money raised through raffles and games to benefit their organization,” said Senator Weinberg (D-Bergen). “However, only veteran and senior citizen groups are permitted to do this, leaving out many other organizations that could also benefit from receiving a portion of the net proceeds as well. Through amending this previous legislation, we will be able to help a wider scope of organizations receive additional funding through these proceeds.”

Following voter approval, the bill, SCR. 91, would permit eligible organizations to use the net proceeds from conducting games of chance, such as bingo and raffles, to support their organizations. Eligible organizations would include veterans, charitable, educational, religious, fraternal, civic, and senior citizens organizations, as well as volunteer fire companies, and first-aid and rescue groups.

The bill was released from committee by a vote of 5-0.