HARRISBURG – The Senate unanimously passed legislation sponsored by Sen. Chris Gebhard (R-48) that would provide much-needed relief to Pennsylvania’s civic organizations, fire companies, veterans’ groups and other nonprofits by increasing the prize limit for small games of chance.
Under current law, clubs and organizations are limited to awarding no more than $35,000 in prizes from small games of chance each week. That cap has not been updated since 2013, despite inflation and the rising costs of community programs these organizations fund.
Senate Bill 995 would raise the weekly limit to $60,000, ensuring local groups can continue generating the revenue they rely on to support vital community services.
“Organizations like our VFWs, American Legions and fire companies depend on small games of chance to fund youth sports, scholarships, emergency services and support for veterans,” Gebhard said. “The outdated cap is forcing many of them to shut down games once they hit the limit — cutting off a major source of funding. My bill modernizes the law and helps these groups continue serving our communities.”
The legislation was part of a package of bills approved by the Senate aimed at supporting local clubs, fire departments and nonprofit organizations.
The bill now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration.