STATEHOUSE (Feb. 23, 2021) – A bill authored by State Sen. Ron Alting (R-Lafayette) that would make changes to charity gaming laws to help businesses negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic passed the Indiana Senate today by a vote of 38 to 10.
Senate Bill 245 would increase the prize limits on certain types of charity gaming and lottery style games like pull tabs, push boards and tip boards. This would allow restaurants and other types of hospitality businesses to utilize these games as revenue streams.
"The public testimony we heard in the Senate Committee on Public Policy, which I chair, was absolutely heartbreaking to listen to," Alting said. "Mom and pop restaurant owners were almost in tears because of the challenges and strict regulations their businesses have faced amid the COVID-19 pandemic. SB 245 will provide an important means of economic development to small businesses owners, helping them survive this pandemic and prosper."
In addition, SB 245 would allow organizations to use the profits from charity gaming for facility improvements like new kitchen equipment and walk-in freezers.
"The last time the Indiana General Assembly passed a gaming bill to help restaurants and bars was a bill I authored 13 years ago," Alting said. "This legislation will not only assist local establishments, but will also increase revenues for nonprofits, allowing them to better maintain their facilities and increase donations."
SB 245 will now be considered by the House of Representatives.
-30-
