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Can you summarize 16 GACO Chapter 12, Article 2, Part 2?
Gambling and Related Offenses > Bingo
Short Summary
These legal documents govern the regulation and operation of bingo games in the state of Georgia. They aim to prevent the commercialization of bingo operations and ensure that most profits go to nonprofit organizations. Only nonprofit, tax-exempt organizations that are properly licensed are allowed to operate bingo games, except for recreational bingo. The documents define various terms related to bingo games and clarify that recreational bingo is not considered a lottery or a form of gambling. Nonprofit, tax-exempt organizations must obtain a license from the Secretary of State to operate a bingo game, and the license is in addition to any other required licenses. The documents also outline the licensing procedure, fee, and renewal requirements for operating bingo games. Organizations must submit an application, pay an annual fee, and provide various information, including personal details, surety information, and criminal offense history. There are exemptions for nonprofit, tax-exempt organizations operating bingo games with limited gross receipts and prizes for specific groups. The documents also cover the revocation of licenses and access to premises by law enforcement agencies. The Secretary of State has the authority to suspend or revoke licenses for violations, and licensees have the right to a hearing. The documents also address the certification of tax-exempt status and the issuance of certificates of licensure. They specify that the Secretary of State is responsible for issuing certificates indicating whether organizations hold valid licenses. The documents further regulate the conduct and operation of bingo sessions, including record-keeping requirements, equipment ownership or leasing, location restrictions, prize limitations, and restrictions on contracts and joint operations. The Secretary of State is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations for the administration and enforcement of these provisions. Operating a bingo game without a valid license is considered a commercial gambling offense, and penalties include license suspension or revocation. The regulatory authority over bingo games and recreational bingo has been transferred from the director of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation to the Secretary of State. The Secretary of State succeeds to all rules, regulations, and administrative orders applicable to the regulation of bingo games. These documents provide a comprehensive legal framework for the operation of bingo games in Georgia.
Whom does it apply to?
Nonprofit, tax-exempt organizations, licensees conducting or operating bingo sessions
What does it govern?
Regulation of bingo games and related offenses
What are exemptions?
Recreational bingo games, nonprofit, tax-exempt organizations operating bingo games with limited gross receipts and prizes for residents and patients of retirement homes, nursing homes, or hospitals
What are the Penalties?
License suspension or revocation for violations of the regulations
Jurisdiction
Georgia