Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) and Sen. Michael Ranzenhofer (R-Amherst) applaud their colleagues for passing this much-needed raffle bill, which nows awaits Govenor Cuomo's signature.

“I am elated to announce that the Senate has passed the ‘Charitable Gaming Act of 2016’ (A.10249A/S7640A) this afternoon and the bill is set to hit Govenor Cuomo’s desk in the near future for the executive’s approval before it becomes law. I would like to commend Sen. Gallivan (R-Elma) and Sen. Ranzenhofer (R-Amherst) for their leadership in the Senate to guide this bill through the legislative process and get it passed as well as Sen. Ortt (R-North Tonawanda) for his persistence on this issue."

In a separate statement, Sen. Ranzenhofer said:

“I am pleased to announce that the State Senate has approved a bill to lift state gaming authority regulations for raffles. Now, local fire departments and other organizations in Genesee County will be able to continue efforts to support our community and help offset the local tax burden. I was proud to co-sponsor the legislation and vote for it in the State Senate, and I am hopeful that Governor Cuomo will sign it into law.”

Hawley added:

“What we need now is for all nonprofit organizations, church groups, Rotary clubs, fire departments, Kiwanis clubs -- and any other service clubs statewide that raise money through raffles -- to write the governor urging him to sign this bill into law.”

Governor Cuomo’s Mailing Address

Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo
Governor of New York State
NYS Capitol Building
Albany, NY 12224