The Ohio House of Representatives has approved a bill that would allow non-profits in the state to hold online raffles, with certain oversight and registration requirements. House Bill 476 now moves to the Senate. Clubs who hold raffles as fundraisers or who are otherwise interested in this issue are encouraged to contact their State Senator regarding House Bill 476.
Type you address in the Elected Officials section of the AKC Legislative Action Center to find the name and contact information for your Ohio State Senator.
Summary:
Current Ohio law is limited in regard to raffles held in the state. Recently, many non-profit organizations have been issued cease and desist letters from the Attorney General for raffles held online. House Bill 476 would clarify the law and allow organizations in good standing in the state to conduct online and in-person raffles, so long as certain requirements are met.
Supporters say this will allow organizations more flexibility in fundraising in the state. Should HB 476 become law, it could impact clubs and other dog organizations wishing to host a raffle in Ohio.
For more information, review the official bill summary from the Ohio Legislative Service Commission.
AKC Government Relations continues to monitor legislation impacting Ohio dog owners. For questions on Ohio legislation, contact AKC GR at doglaw@akc.org.