Rep. Irwin offered the following resolution:

            House Resolution No. 224.

            A resolution to request that the Michigan Gaming Control Board reconsider recent regulatory proposals regarding charitable gaming.

            Whereas, New restrictions imposed by the Michigan Gaming Control Board will adversely affect charities that benefit from the proceeds of charitable gaming. For example, the ability to raise money will be severely affected by a new midnight curfew, as there is considerable potential for fundraising between 12:00 and 2:00 AM that will be lost. Charities are volunteer groups that rely on gaming events to fund their work, and the new restrictions could mean millions in lost revenue; and

            Whereas, Legal and regulated charitable gaming operations divert the profits from illegal and underground gambling to legal operations within the reach of regulators, law enforcement and taxing authorities. The imposition of bureaucratic rules that frustrate the ability of operators and players to enjoy the gaming environment and schedule will promote the success of illegal gambling houses, thus diminishing public safety; and

            Whereas, Since the Michigan Gaming Control Board took over supervision of charitable gaming from the Michigan Lottery in 2012, the number of events has decreased by about 70 percent due to bureaucratic barriers and artificial restrictions on the marketplace. Further restrictions may make it difficult for the industry to survive and mean an end to legal revenue on which charities, and those vulnerable Michigan residents they serve, rely; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we request that the Michigan Gaming Control Board reconsider recent regulatory proposals regarding charitable gaming; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Michigan Gaming Control Board.