Allows nonprofit organizations to participate in permitted games of chance upon registering with the state police on an annual basis. The nonprofit would be exempt from any required background checks by local law enforcement.

Plain-English Summary

This bill would make it easier for nonprofit organizations in Rhode Island to hold or participate in permitted games of chance — such as raffles, bingo, or similar fundraising activities. Under current law, nonprofits may face background check requirements from local law enforcement as part of the approval process. This bill would change that by creating a simpler, statewide registration process through the Rhode Island State Police that nonprofits would complete once per year.

The key change is that nonprofits registering through this new process would not be required to undergo the background checks that local police departments currently conduct. Instead of going through local authorities each time, a nonprofit would register annually at the state level and be cleared to participate in these permitted gambling activities throughout the year.

This bill primarily affects nonprofit organizations — such as charities, civic groups, religious organizations, or community clubs — that use games of chance as a way to raise funds. It could simplify the process and reduce paperwork or delays for these groups. Local law enforcement agencies would also be affected, as they would no longer be responsible for reviewing and approving these organizations.

The bill was introduced in the Rhode Island House and referred to the House Judiciary Committee, which recommended it be held for further study rather than moving it forward immediately. A hearing was scheduled for March 2026, meaning lawmakers are still in the early stages of reviewing and debating the proposal.