RI Rep Calls for Lift of Social Gaming Ban

Rep. Gregg Amore has introduced legislation (2016-H 7141) that would allow social gaming in private residences, public taverns, and private clubs as long as there is a social relationship between participants and no person other than the participants receives anything of value.

“With the March Madness beginning and several games being played right here in Providence, I think this is common sense legislation that would make all of those office pools and friendly wagers between friends and family no longer illegal,” said Representative Amore (D-Dist. 65, East Providence).  “Filling out a college basketball bracket should not make you a criminal, even though currently, it technically does.  This bill rectifies that problem.”

The legislation further establishes that no entry fees or proceeds from the gaming can be paid to the house, host, owner or manager of the establishment or private residence.
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The cosponsors of the legislation are Rep. John J. Lombardi (D-Dist. 8, Providence), Rep. William W. O’Brien (D-Dist. 54, North Providence), Rep. Daniel P. McKiernan (D-Dist. 7, Providence), and Rep. Robert E. Craven (D-Dist. 32, North Kingstown).

The bill scheduled to be heard by the House Committee on Judiciary on Wednesday, March 16at the RISE of the House in Room 205 of the State House.