LaRe's Electronic Instant Bingo Bill Receives Hearings in Senate Committee

COLUMBUS – House Bill 282 yesterday had its second hearing in the Senate Government Oversight and Reform Committee. Sponsored by State Representatives Jeff LaRe (R-Violet Township) and Adam Holmes (R-Nashport), House would permit the use of electronic instant bingo devices.

Charitable bingo was first authorized by the Ohio Constitution in 1975. Originally, it permitted veterans groups, fraternal organizations and 501(c)(3)s to conduct charitable bingo games, as long as they were licensed through the Ohio Attorney General’s office.

Under LaRe’s proposed legislation, the Ohio Attorney General’s office will continue to oversee and regulate charitable bingo. It will also be the office’s responsibility to ensure organizations that wish to participate in electronic bingo are licensed and in good standing with the IRS.

The bill heard 13 proponent testimonies yesterday in support of the legislation. Among those were the Attorney General’s Office, VFW Dept. of Ohio, Save a Warrior, AmVets Dept. of Ohio and others. LaRe and Holmes provided sponsor testimony last month.

“House Bill 282 would modernize and bring increased integrity to Ohio’s charitable gaming laws by legalizing electronic bingo games,” said LaRe. “Passing this bill would mean support to veterans and non-profit organizations, further empowering them to make an even greater impact on their communities.”

The legislation will continue to have hearings in the Senate Government Oversight and Reform Committee.

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For more information, contact Rep. LaRe’s office at (614) 466-8100 or rep77@ohiohouse.gov