McNeill lauds committee vote as welcome news
Proposed legislation would allow nonprofits, others to conduct games of chance online
Rep. Jeanne McNeill March 24, 2021 | 3:40 PM
HARRISBURG, March 24 – State Rep. Jeanne McNeill, D-Lehigh, a member of the PA House Gaming Oversight Committee, announced today that nonprofit entities that lost fundraising revenue due to closures and canceled fundraisers caused by COVID-19 mitigation efforts are now one step closer to being able to conduct online games of chance.
“There’s no doubt that so many of our first responders, churches, veterans’ associations and others have experienced a negative financial impact during this past year,” McNeill said. “This is an issue that’s especially impacted our smaller nonprofits. And this legislation is something I was proud to advocate for and co-sponsor.”
In a unanimous vote, the committee approved H.B. 290, which, if passed by the legislature, would allow small games of chance licensees to conduct online games as well as online transactions during the duration of the COVID-19 emergency declaration.
“I’ve spoken with many volunteers and nonprofits who have seen expenses rise while incomes dropped because traditional fundraising pathways were restricted or limited,” McNeill said. “This legislation provides a legal solution to an issue impacting countless entities in Lehigh County and beyond. I’ve been advocating for a solution, and I call upon my colleagues to immediately consider this bill.”