Two bills aimed at helping local fire departments, veterans organizations and non-profits raise funds passed the state House of Representatives today, said Rep. Jim Marshall (R-Big Beaver).  

“Fundraisers involved with small games of chance, like ones run by many local fire companies, VFWs and American Legions, are a big part of the operational budgets of these community organizations,” Marshall said. “House Bill 169 loosens some restrictions that have served mainly as bureaucratic red tape for organizations who wish to benefit from these fundraisers.” 

House Bill 169 would update the 1988 Local Option Small Games of Chance Act.  Under this proposal, limits for prize payouts would be increased from $500 to $1,000 for daily drawings and raffles, from $5,000 to $25,000 for weekly drawings.  This legislation would also permit progressive games with a maximum cash value of $5,000.  Groups that perform emergency services would be permitted to conduct one drawing per year with a maximum award of $50,000 for the purpose of raising funds to purchase equipment. In addition, this bill would allow these organizations to use a portion of the money raised for capital expenses such as building projects.  

The bill passed in the House by a vote of 169-24. 

Additionally, the House unanimously passed legislation to adapt portions of the Public Eating and Drinking Place Law to non-profits to legally allow for the sale of food made in private kitchens at fundraising events. 

“I applaud the work done by Sen. Elder Vogel (R-New Sewickley) to get this legislation passed,” Marshall said. “Most local non-profits do a great job of making sure that food sold for their fundraising efforts is clean, well-prepared and a real treat for those of us purchasing it.  This legislation will help make sure that these groups don’t run into any unnecessary roadblocks.” 

Both bills now head to the state Senate for consideration.  

Rep. Jim Marshall
14th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
(724) 847-1352
(717) 260-6432
Contact: Diane Moore
dmoore@pahousegop.com
(717) 772-9844
Member Site:  RepMarshall.com
Caucus Site:  PAHouseGOP.com