Governor Quinn Signs Legislation to Help Charitable Events

MARION - Governor Pat Quinn today signed legislation to help organizers of charitable poker runs in Illinois. The legislation ensures that more of the money raised from these grassroots events will go toward the intended recipient by reducing required fees. Today's action is part of Governor Quinn's commitment to encourage volunteerism in Illinois.

"These rides are a creative way to raise funds to support worthy causes," Governor Quinn said. "This new law will help even more events get rolling and help support organizations across Illinois."

Senate Bill 3312, sponsored by State Senator Gary Forby (D-Benton) and State Representative Rich Brauer (R-Petersburg), places poker runs as a legal activity under the Raffles Act. This places the events under the jurisdiction of county governments and allows a fee of up to $25 to be charged. Poker runs had previously been under the auspices of the Gaming Act, which is overseen by the state and carries fees of $400 to $600 per event. The legislation is effective immediately.

"I appreciate the Governor's quick attention to signing this bill into law. The people in southern Illinois enjoy these charitable events and they help so many in my district," Senator Forby said. "This type of charity assists low income families or families with no insurance who face devastating events in their lives. We have also assisted local volunteer fire departments and other community organizations with unmet needs. This truly is a good thing!"

"This legislation cleaned up some regulations that were impeding motorcycle-based fundraising events," Representative Brauer said. "We are thankful for the swift action by the Governor because it will allow ABATE (A Brotherhood Aimed Toward Education) to continue their long history of charitable giving to people in need."