Act Now to Save Charitable Gaming: Urgent Action Needed for HB904

The future of charitable gaming in Kentucky faces a critical moment. House Bill 904, which supports charitable gaming activities benefiting local non-profits, is at risk of being weakened or blocked in the Senate. This bill plays a vital role in sustaining community programs funded by charitable gaming revenues. Now, more than ever, members and supporters must act quickly to ensure the bill’s passage.

Why HB904 Matters for Charitable Gaming

Charitable gaming provides essential funding for many non-profit organizations that serve communities across Kentucky. These funds support causes such as education, health services, youth programs, and community development. HB904 includes provisions that protect and expand charitable gaming opportunities, allowing these organizations to continue their important work.

Without this bill, many non-profits could lose a significant source of revenue. The stakes are high because the bill is currently caught in a political struggle between the House and Senate, with some Senate leaders considering removing key parts of the legislation.

The Current Challenge Facing HB904

Tensions between the House and Senate have complicated the state budget process. This conflict threatens to delay or block important bills, including HB904. The Family Foundation is actively lobbying against the bill, arguing that it expands gambling. At the same time, sports wagering companies oppose an amendment that would limit betting amounts.

Senate leadership has expressed uncertainty about the bill’s future and may strip out large sections, including the charitable gaming provisions. This makes it urgent to focus efforts on protecting the charitable gaming section before it is too late.

How You Can Help Save Charitable Gaming

Your voice matters in this fight. Legislators need to hear from their constituents about the importance of HB904 and the charitable gaming section. Here’s how you can take action immediately:

• Make a phone call to the general legislative number: 1-800-372-7181

Ask to leave a message for all representatives. Provide your zip code and street address to be added to their contact database.

Use this message:

“I’m asking for your support in passing HB904, specifically regarding the charitable gaming portion that supports the good work of non-profits in our communities.”

• Reach out directly if you have personal contact information for legislators. Personalized messages can have a stronger impact.

  
  

• Target key senators who are influential in the bill’s progress:

- Sen. David P. Givens (District 9)

- Sen. Robby Mills (District 4)

- Sen. Robert Stivers (District 25)

- Sen. Mike Wilson (District 32)

Taking just a few minutes to call or email these legislators can make a difference in preserving charitable gaming.

Kentucky State Capitol building where HB904 is being debated

Why Immediate Action Is Crucial

The next three days are critical. Senate leaders may move quickly to change or remove the charitable gaming provisions. If supporters do not act now, the bill could lose the parts that help non-profits, or fail altogether.

This is not just about legislation; it’s about the future of community programs that rely on charitable gaming funds. Without HB904, many organizations will face funding shortfalls that could reduce services or force program cuts.

What Happens If HB904 Fails?

If the bill does not pass with its charitable gaming section intact, the consequences will be felt across Kentucky:

• Non-profits may lose a steady revenue stream

• Community programs could face budget cuts or closures

• Opportunities for fundraising through charitable gaming will shrink

• Local economies that benefit from these activities may suffer

  
  

Supporting HB904 means supporting the health and vitality of Kentucky’s communities.

Final Steps to Make Your Voice Heard

• Call 1-800-372-7181 today and leave your message

• Email or call key senators if you have their contact info

• Encourage friends, family, and fellow supporters to do the same

• Share this message with your networks to increase outreach

  
  

Your quick action can help ensure that charitable gaming continues to support the causes that matter most in Kentucky.

Jesse Shipp, PSP

State Gaming Chair

Kentucky Elks Association