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Can I offer contests that involve loyalty programs in Washington? What are the requirements?
Loyalty Programs and Contests in Washington State
In Washington State, contests that involve loyalty programs are allowed as long as they comply with the requirements outlined in [1.1]. There are no specific requirements for loyalty programs, but any contests or promotions offered through a loyalty program must comply with the following requirements:
Requirements for Contests
- No one under twenty-one years of age is allowed to participate, and no premiums, prizes, coupons, contests, or competitive events are targeted to persons under twenty-one years of age [1.1].
- Contests or sweepstakes that offer prizes or premiums to consumers through a game of chance or random drawing shall not require proof of purchase and must comply with the requirements of RCW 9.46.0356 regarding gambling [1.1].
- Liquor advertisements are prohibited by manufacturers, importers, or distributors that offer any premium or prize redeemable through a Washington state liquor store or any retail liquor outlet licensed by the state of Washington, such as “instant” or “in-store” redeemable offers [1.1].
Additional Requirements
In addition to the above requirements, there are other requirements that may apply depending on the type of contest being offered. For example, if the contest involves a promotional contest of chance, the requirements outlined in [2.1] must be followed. If the contest involves a promotional contest of chance similar to bingo, the requirements outlined in [3.1] must be followed. If the contest involves promotional game cards, the requirements outlined in [3.2] must be followed. If the contest involves enhanced raffles, the requirements outlined in [4.1] must be followed. If the contest involves handicapping contests, the requirements outlined in [5.1] must be followed. If the contest involves electronic raffles, the requirements outlined in [4.3] must be followed. If the contest involves a raffle conducted by a credit union, the requirements outlined in [4.4] must be followed.
Conclusion
In summary, contests that involve loyalty programs are allowed in Washington State as long as they comply with the requirements outlined in [1.1] and any additional requirements that may apply depending on the type of contest being offered.
Source(s):
- [1.1] Contests, competitive events, premiums and coupons.
- [2.1] Promotional contests of chance.
- [3.1] Promotional contests of chance similar to bingo.
- [3.2] Promotional game cards used in promotional contests of chance.
- [4.1] Independent audit required for enhanced raffles.
- [5.1] Handicapping contests.
- [4.3] Provide rules to electronic raffle participants.
- [4.4] Conducting a raffle by a credit union.
Jurisdiction
Washington