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Can I offer contests that involve skill-based games in South Carolina? What are the requirements?
Offering Skill-Based Contests in South Carolina
Based on the context documents, it appears that South Carolina law does not specifically address contests involving skill-based games. However, there are regulations regarding raffles and lotteries that may be relevant.
Savings Promotion Contests
Financial institutions authorized to do business in South Carolina under federal or state law may conduct savings promotion contests in accordance with SCCL 34-45-30. These contests are intended to encourage depositors to maintain savings accounts and increase personal savings.
Raffles and Lotteries
According to SCCL 33-57-100, lotteries or raffles of any type whatsoever are unlawful unless authorized by specific provisions of South Carolina law. Nonprofit organizations are qualified to conduct raffles if they meet certain criteria, including being organized and operated for charitable purposes. Exemptions from registration for raffles are authorized for certain types of raffles, including those where a noncash prize is donated and the total value of the prize or prizes offered is not more than nine hundred fifty dollars.
It is unclear whether contests involving skill-based games would fall under the definition of a raffle or lottery in South Carolina law. Therefore, it is recommended that you consult with a legal professional to determine the specific requirements for offering such contests in South Carolina.
Online Games
The South Carolina Code of Regulations authorizes the Executive Director of the South Carolina Education Lottery Commission to select, operate, and contract for the operation of online games that meet certain criteria [3.2].
Restrictions on Raffles
Nonprofit organizations are allowed to operate up to four raffles per year, and each raffle shall continue for not more than nine months from the date the first raffle ticket is sold [4.3].
In summary, while South Carolina law does not specifically address contests involving skill-based games, there are regulations regarding raffles and lotteries that may be relevant. It is recommended that you consult with a legal professional to determine the specific requirements for offering such contests in South Carolina.
Source(s):
- [4.3] Raffle restrictions.
- [3.2] Online Games.
Jurisdiction
South Carolina