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Can I offer contests that involve both skill and chance in Washington? What are the requirements?

Yes, you can offer contests that involve both skill and chance in Washington, but there are specific requirements that must be followed.

Requirements for contests of chance in Washington

According to [2.1]" >WARC 9.46.0356, a business may conduct a promotional contest of chance in Washington, provided that:

  • The contest is conducted solely for the purpose of advertising or promoting the services, goods, wares, and merchandise of the business.
  • The contest does not require any consideration (i.e., payment) from participants.
  • The contest involves an element of chance and a prize.
  • The contest does not involve the internet.
  • The contest complies with chapter 19.170 RCW, promotional advertising of prizes, and chapter 19.86 RCW, unfair business practices.

Requirements for contests of skill and chance in Washington

There are no specific regulations in Washington that govern contests of skill and chance. However, it is important to ensure that the contest is not considered gambling under [2.2]" >WARC 9.46.0225, which defines “contest of chance” as any contest, game, gaming scheme, or gaming device in which the outcome depends in a material degree upon an element of chance, notwithstanding that skill of the contestants may also be a factor therein.

To avoid being considered gambling, the contest should have a significant element of skill involved in determining the winner. Additionally, the contest should comply with all other relevant laws and regulations, such as those related to advertising and consumer protection.

Conclusion

In summary, you can offer contests that involve both skill and chance in Washington, but you must ensure that they comply with all relevant laws and regulations. For contests of chance, this includes complying with the requirements outlined in [2.1]" >WARC 9.46.0356. For contests of skill and chance, you should ensure that the contest has a significant element of skill involved in determining the winner and complies with all other relevant laws and regulations.

Source(s):
Jurisdiction

Washington