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Can I offer contests that involve in-game promotions in Illinois? What are the requirements?

Based on the documents provided, it appears that contests that involve in-game promotions may be considered a form of gambling and subject to regulation under Illinois law. Specifically, the Illinois Compiled Statutes define a “raffle” as a form of lottery in which players pay something of value for a chance to win a prize based on an element of chance [1.1]. Charitable organizations may conduct certain types of games of chance, including poker runs and raffles, subject to certain restrictions and licensing requirements [2.3]. However, any person who conducts or knowingly participates in an unlicensed charitable game commits the offense of gambling in violation of Section 28-1 of the Criminal Code of 2012 [2.6].

In Illinois, charitable organizations may apply for a charitable games license to conduct certain types of games of chance, including raffles, poker runs, and pull tabs and jar games [2.2]. The Department of Revenue issues charitable games licenses upon application and payment of a nonrefundable fee of $400 due upon application and each renewal [2.2]. The licensee may hold only one license, which is in effect for 2 years from its date of issuance unless extended, suspended, or revoked by Department action before that date [2.2].

The Illinois Gaming Law Enforcement Fund is a special fund in the State Treasury that receives 5% of the net proceeds of charitable games conducted under the provisions of the Illinois Compiled Statutes [2.5]. The General Assembly appropriates two-thirds of the monies in such fund to the Department of Revenue, Illinois State Police and the Office of the Attorney General for State law enforcement purposes. The remaining one-third of the monies in such fund shall be appropriated to the Department of Revenue for the purpose of distribution in the form of grants to counties or municipalities for law enforcement purposes [2.7].

It is unclear from the documents provided whether in-game promotions would be considered a form of gambling subject to regulation under Illinois law. Therefore, it is recommended that you consult with a legal professional familiar with Illinois gambling laws to determine whether your proposed contest would be permissible and what licensing requirements may apply.

In summary, it is unclear whether contests that involve in-game promotions are permissible in Illinois without further information. It is recommended that you seek legal advice to determine the legality of your proposed contest.

Source(s):
Jurisdiction

Illinois