SB475 Summary

• Proposes a local constitutional amendment for the City of Bessemer in Jefferson County to legalize bingo games operated by nonprofit organizations for charitable, educational, or other lawful purposes.

• Restricts bingo operations to persons age 19 and older, requires games be conducted exclusively on nonprofit-owned or leased premises, and prohibits nonprofit organizations from contracting with third parties to operate bingo games or paying consulting fees.

• Limits individual bingo session prizes to $10,000 in cash or equivalent gifts and requires all equipment to be clearly marked with the nonprofit organization's name.

• Authorizes the Bessemer City Council to promulgate licensing, permitting, and operation rules, with the police chief responsible for compliance enforcement.

• Establishes violation of the amendment as a Class A misdemeanor and requires voter approval through a local election.