Senate unanimously approves bill adjusting gambling prize and ticket limits, citing support for local charities

The Minnesota Senate on May 16 passed Senate File 4515, a bill relating to lawful gambling intended to modify certain prize and ticket limits; senators framed the bill on the floor as a way to help local charities and civic organizations that rely on meat-raffle fundraisers.

Senator Duckworth introduced the bill and urged members to pass it 'for the people of Minnesota so they can enjoy meat raffles.' A colloquial exchange followed on the floor about raffle tickets and winners; the session included lighthearted remarks but also a substantive procedural exchange over an offered amendment.

Senator Dibble offered Amendment A‑3, which he described as language to ban certain online sweepstakes that he argued operate as gambling by using 'free tokens' convertible to cash. Several senators objected to the amendment as not germane to the underlying gaming statute (chapter 349), noting it would instead implicate trade and consumer-protection chapters (chapter 325). After points of order, the presiding officer sustained the non-germaneness objection and the A‑3 amendment did not proceed.

The bill returned to final passage; senators spoke in support, citing charitable uses of meat-raffle proceeds for VFWs, American Legions and youth sports. On the final roll, the secretary announced 67 ayes, 0 nays; the bill passed unanimously on the floor and the title was agreed to.

Noted on the record: A question on the effective date was raised on the floor and Senator Duckworth said he hoped it would be 'effective immediately' but said he would check the text and 'get back' with the precise answer, so the transcript leaves the effective date for statutory enactment unspecified.

Next steps: With Senate passage recorded, the bill must also clear the other chamber or be enrolled per usual legislative procedure.