House Bill 511 Summary

• Authorizes nonprofit organizations exempt under Internal Revenue Code sections 501(c)(3), (4), (5), or (6) to operate "game nights" at qualified facilities (those with on-premises alcohol permits) in areas east of I-26, subject to permitting and regulation.

• Limits game nights to 4 events per year per organization, maximum 5 hours per event, with no more than 2 events per building per week; requires $100 permit fee; prohibits cash prizes (raffle only); allows only specified games including roulette, blackjack, poker, craps, and simulated horse racing.

• Increases nonprofit raffle limits from 2 to 4 raffles per year and doubles annual prize caps from $125,000 to $250,000 in cash prizes and merchandise; allows independent operation of raffles by regional or county chapters.

• Allows employers or trade associations with 25+ members/employees to hold free game night events for employees/members and guests with proper permitting.

• Permits nonprofits to offer and sell alcoholic beverages in original closed containers as raffle prizes or auction items at ticketed fundraising events; streamlines reissuance of certain one-time alcohol permits for repeat nonprofit events.