Ask Reggi Your Question Now

Reggi is the free generative AI assistance for regulatory compliance
Ask a Question

Can I offer contests that involve chance-based games in Minnesota? What are the requirements?

Yes, you can offer contests that involve chance-based games in Minnesota, but only certain types of contests are allowed. Raffles and button raffles are allowed under Minnesota Statutes, section 349.173. However, there are specific requirements that must be followed in order to conduct these contests legally.

Requirements for Chance-Based Games in Minnesota

Raffles

Here are the requirements for conducting a raffle in Minnesota:

  • Raffle tickets must have a detachable section and both parts must be sequentially numbered, starting with the number “1” and continuing through the maximum number of tickets to be sold.
  • The detachable section of the ticket must contain spaces for the purchaser’s name, address, and telephone number.
  • The following information must be printed on each ticket: organization name and license or exemption number, date, time, and location of the selection or determination of winning entries, sequential number of the ticket, ticket price, and at a minimum the three most valuable prizes to be awarded, including a statement regarding the winner’s responsibility for any applicable fees or taxes.
  • Raffle tickets must not contain the words “suggested donation” or any other implied request for money, other than the price printed on the raffle ticket.
  • Each entry in a raffle must have an equal chance to win in the raffle.
  • The organization may not require a person to purchase more than one ticket or certificate of participation, or to pay for anything else to enter a raffle.
  • The organization may not require a person to be present at a raffle to be eligible to win a prize.
  • Each seller must return to the organization all unsold tickets and the stubs or other detachable section of all tickets sold before the drawing.
  • Tickets or certificates of participation must not be sold after the organization has started the prize selection process.
  • The organization must account for all proceeds and unsold tickets.

For more information on raffles, see [MNAC 7861.0310][3.1].

Button Raffles

Here are the requirements for conducting a button raffle in Minnesota:

  • When a button is used as a certificate of participation, the button must be sequentially numbered and have a corresponding ticket for the drawing.
  • The button may be used by the holder for a free or reduced entry fee to an event that is sponsored by the organization, community, or other entity if there is no cost to the holder for the event.
  • The organization must account for all proceeds and unsold buttons.

For more information on button raffles, see [MNAC 7861.0310][3.1].

Other Chance-Based Games

Minnesota law does not allow for other types of chance-based games, such as lotteries or casino-style games, unless they are conducted by the state or by Native American tribes.

Conclusion

In summary, Minnesota law allows for certain types of contests that involve chance-based games, such as raffles and button raffles. However, there are specific requirements that must be followed in order to conduct these contests legally. If you have any further questions or concerns, it is recommended that you consult with a legal professional.

For more information on the requirements for conducting raffles and button raffles in Minnesota, see [MNAC 7861.0310][3.1].

Source(s):
Jurisdiction

Minnesota