We are a 501(3)c non-profit all volunteer organization that relies solely on donations to operate. We are thinking of holding a raffle to raise money. The prizes are donated. We are located in Tennessee. Is this legal?

Thank you.

Lotteries and so forth are regulated by most states. Tennessee is no exception. For the details, look here (http://www.michie.com/tennessee/lpext.dll/tncode/123d/1783?fn=document-frame.htm&f=templates&2.0#).


39-17-654. Offense of engaging in gambling promotion under the pretense of conducting an annual event — Offense of managing, conducting or operating an annual event. —
(a) (1) It is an offense for any person to knowingly engage in gambling promotion under the pretense of conducting an annual event.
(2) A violation of this subsection (a) is a Class E felony;... http://www.michie.com/tennessee/lpext.dll?f=templates&fn=main-h.htm&cp=tncode

Yes, in Tenessee a non profit group can operate a raffle.

But they have to follow specific rules. They have to be county restricted and each event has to happen at a physcial location of that charity. Also they have to pay a fee for a permit

Tennessee Department of State: Charitable Fundraising & Gaming (http://www.tennessee.gov/sos/charity/gaming/gaming_faq.htm)