[r67] Rep. Duncan Supports Charity Gaming; Bill Passes House (4/15/2009)

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Start Date: 4/15/2009 All Day
End Date: 4/15/2009
(STATEHOUSE) April 15, 2009 - State Rep. Cleo Duncan (R-Greensburg) joined her House colleagues in supporting a bill that improves charity gaming events.  Senate Bill 414 passed the House of Representatives by a 98-0 vote Wednesday afternoon.

"This bill clears up many difficulties charities face when they try to raise funds through gaming events," said Rep. Duncan.  "For example, charities can lose a lot of money if their volunteers aren't able to also support the organization by partaking in the charitable games when their shift is over."

Besides allowing gaming workers to participate in games, Senate Bill 414 removes requirements to collect certain information from players if winnings are under $250.  It also increases the number of gaming events a worker may work from one to three per month.

"Charitable organizations are feeling the effects of our economic situation perhaps more than any of us," said Rep. Duncan.  "We've worked with the Gaming Commission to draft legislation that will give charitable organizations the freedom to raise funds to help others."

Amendments made in the House must be adopted by the Senate before the bill heads to Gov. Mitch Daniels' desk for the signature that will make it law.  The bill previously passed the Senate by a 49-1 vote.

-30-

Rep. Duncan encourages constituents to contact her with questions or concerns through e-mail at h67@in.gov, by calling the Statehouse at 1-800-382-9841 or by writing her at the Statehouse, 200 W. Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204. If you are interested in receiving Rep. Duncan's weekly eNewsletter, you can sign up at www.in.gov/h67.