(McConnell Release) McConnell Bill Will Help Charities Raise Money During Tough Economic Downturn
Bill Will Overhaul Antiquated Gambling Laws
March 5, 2009 – Columbia, SC - Currently it’s against the law to play a friendly game of cards in your own kitchen, even when no money is at stake. It’s against the law for charities and nonprofit organizations to hold “casino nights” or “Monte Carlo” events to raise money for charity. It’s even against the law for a charity to raffle of a cake during a fundraising drive.
Senator Glenn McConnell (R-Charleston) introduced a plan today to help charities and nonprofit organizations raise money during this tough economic crisis by overhauling South Carolina’s antiquated gambling laws, many of which have not be revised since the 1800’s. Senator McConnell will be introducing a constitutional amendment to make the changes permanent but to help charities during this economic downturn, McConnell is also introducing legislation to serve as a quick fix.
“It makes no sense to me that a member of a church cannot offer a handmade quilt to raffle to raise money for his or her church class. It makes no sense to me that a nonprofit group cannot offer 10 cents a chance to raffle a cake to raise money,” Senator McConnell said. “I know to change the law to allow these types of raffles will require a constitutional amendment, which will take at least until 2010. In the meantime, I am introducing today needed legislation that will allow, immediately upon passage, charities and nonprofit organizations to have a much-needed tool for fundraising.”
McConnell continued “In these critical economic times when charities and nonprofits are facing decreased contributions, they have repeatedly sent communications to my office pleading for relief that would allow them to increase their fundraising activities. “
McConnell says that he’s heard of instances recently where police have stopped these type fundraising activities or warned against them. He believes that charities should be able to offer their members a fun night while also raising much-needed funds.
“I still believe that this is only one part of the much needed overhaul of our antiquated and outdated laws on gambling,” McConnell said. His plan also allows people the opportunity to hold social games in their private homes without being subject to arrest.
Senator McConnell’s bill, S 535 now heads to Judiciary Committee for consideration.
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***This press release is sent on behalf of South Carolina Senate President Pro Tempore Glenn McConnell.