Oroho Bill to Allow Remote Bingo Approved by Senate Panel

Measure Helps Charities and Organizations Unable to Effectively Raise Money During the Pandemic

Senator Steve Oroho’s legislation that would allow bingo games and raffles to be conducted remotely cleared the Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee today.

Under Oroho’s bill (S-2631), organizations eligible to host the fund-raising games in person under current law would be permitted to utilize technology approved by the Legalized Games of Chance Control Commission to conduct remote activities.

“Many non-profits and charities have seen their primary revenue sources severely diminished due to rules and guidelines restricting indoor gatherings during the pandemic,” said Oroho (R-24). “By re-opening the revenue flow with remote contests, this measure could be a life preserver to vital organizations that may not otherwise survive the fiscal challenges created by the coronavirus.

“The virus has impacted every aspect of our lives, and we have been forced to find alternatives to the way things have always been done. This is one of those examples,” Oroho continued. “Bingo is still bingo if you call the numbers on Zoom or another approved digital solution.”

Under the current law governing games of chance, eligible organizations include veterans groups, religious congregations and organizations, charitable, educational and fraternal organizations, civic and service clubs, senior citizen associations and clubs, and volunteer fire companies, first aid, and rescue squads.