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North Dakota House defeats bill narrowing locations for charitable gaming after rural lawmakers warn of harm
Summary
The House voted 16–77 to reject Senate Bill 23 73, which would have clarified that charitable gaming must take place in on‑sale liquor establishments and designated 21+ areas; lawmakers from small towns said the change would hamper volunteer organizations and community events.
The North Dakota House of Representatives on March 10 rejected Senate Bill 23 73 by a vote of 16–77, defeating a proposal to tighten where charitable gaming may be conducted.
Chief Clerk introduced the engrossed bill, citing amendments to sections of the North Dakota Century Code that would clarify that charitable gaming (pull tabs, electronic pull tabs, punch boards, paddle wheels, poker and sports pools) may be conducted only in establishments holding an on‑sale liquor license and within designated areas where patrons must be 21 or older.
Representative Carls, the bill carrier, told the chamber that the age‑restricted, designated‑area requirement would provide clarity amid "people getting creative about requesting where charitable gaming can occur," and that the designated area would be determined by the charity and the local governing body with assistance from the gaming division.
Opponents, many representing small towns, said the language would impose undue burdens on rural venues that serve multiple functions. "I voted no," Representative Vetter said while explaining that small‑town establishments and volunteer groups voiced concern that the measure would be "a little bit too much micromanaging." Representative Fraley described common community uses of bar‑and‑grill establishments—sports banquets and fundraisers—where families and children participate, and urged colleagues to oppose the bill.
Representative Koppelman raised examples of larger and unconventional venues, including self‑service wine venues, arguing that the bill’s requirement that alcohol be "dispensed by employees" could unintentionally strip some establishments of the ability to host charitable gaming. Representative Clameen characterized the measure as a clarification to align other game types with existing designated‑area rules for electronic pull tabs, saying it was "not meant to stifle any gaming." Representative Greenite and others warned the measure could effectively close gaming options that support volunteer fire departments and local nonprofits.
After extended debate, the House recorded a final vote of 16 yea and 77 nay and declared SB 23 73 failed. With the bill defeated, the current statutory framework governing where charitable gaming may occur remains in place.
