Political campaigns fueled by gambling proceeds? That’s the debate sparked by Rep. Jared Hendrix’s new bill, which would classify political organizations as “public-spirited,” making them eligible for charitable gaming funds. Critics, including nonprofit leaders, worry this could erode public trust in charitable gaming, already a billion-dollar industry in North Dakota. With the state’s loose campaign finance laws, the prospect of politicians benefiting directly from gambling revenue raises serious ethical questions. At stake is whether the law protects public interest—or political self-interest.
Rob Port has the full story on Inforum.com. Bill details can be found below.
HB 1276
A BILL for an Act to amend and reenact subsection 1 of section 53-06.1-03 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to a public-spirited organization’s use of raffle proceeds for a political purpose.
House Sponsors: Hendrix (R, District 10), Bolinske (R, District 40), Henderson (R, District 15), D. Johnston (R, District 24), Kasper (R, District 46), Koppelman (R, District 16), D. Ruby (R, District 38),
Senate Sponsors: Castaneda (R, District 40), Wobbema (R, District 24),
