Ask Reggi Your Question Now
Can I offer contests that involve charity donations in Ohio? What are the requirements?
Based on the information provided in the Ohio Administrative Code and Revised Code, it appears that offering contests that involve charity donations in Ohio is not explicitly addressed. However, there are rules and regulations in place for player against player contests and fantasy contests that may be relevant to your inquiry.
Player Against Player Contests
According to OHAC Rule 3772-14-01, a “Player Against Player Contest” means an event in which individuals pay consideration to participate or compete against one another in a program or series of programs in which the casino operator has no stake other than a rake. A promotion, as described in rule 3772-13-01 of the Administrative Code, is not a player against player contest.
If you plan to offer a player against player contest that involves charity donations, you must follow the guidelines outlined in OHAC Rule 3772-14-01, including obtaining approval for the program, conducting the contest using commission-approved equipment, and keeping a complete record of all entrants and prizes awarded.
Fantasy Contests
Fantasy contests are exempt from Chapter 2915 of the Revised Code, according to OHRC Section 3774.09. However, fantasy contest operators must obtain a license and comply with the rules outlined in OHAC Rule 3772-74-06, OHAC Rule 3772-74-07, OHAC Rule 3772-74-11, OHAC Rule 3772-74-12, and OHAC Rule 3772-74-16.
If you plan to offer a fantasy contest that involves charity donations, you must apply for a license, pay the applicable fee, and comply with all instructions and regulations. Additionally, you must not offer or allow prohibited activities, such as extending lines of credit to players or offering auto draft functionality without approval from the commission.
It is important to note that the information provided may not be exhaustive and there may be additional requirements or regulations that apply to your specific situation. We recommend consulting with a legal professional to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
Therefore, based on the information provided, it is possible to offer contests that involve charity donations in Ohio, but you must comply with the guidelines outlined in OHAC Rule 3772-14-01 for player against player contests and OHAC Rule 3772-74-06, OHAC Rule 3772-74-07, OHAC Rule 3772-74-11, OHAC Rule 3772-74-12, and OHAC Rule 3772-74-16 for fantasy contests.
Jurisdiction
Ohio