Tennessee Senate Bill SB1355

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, Chapter 51, relative to the lottery.

Impact

The enactment of SB1355 is set to influence the manner in which lottery gaming is conducted in Tennessee by mandating specific payment rules. By prohibiting the use of machines that dispense coins or allow credit card payments, the bill seeks to streamline the operational framework of lottery games, which may have broader implications for revenue generation and patronage in state-run lotteries. This could also impact the technology deployed in gaming venues and require adaptations to existing machines.

Summary

Senate Bill 1355 proposes amendments to Section 4-51-123 of the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically targeting regulations surrounding the lottery. The bill aims to clarify the restrictions on lottery games that utilize electronic or mechanical machines. Notably, it states that such machines must not dispense coins or currency, nor allow payment through credit cards, effectively limiting payment methods in lottery gaming operations.

Contention

Despite its intentions to solidify regulatory standards, the bill may face pushback from stakeholders invested in the gaming industry. Concerns could be raised regarding the accessibility of lottery games and the potential implications for player engagement. By limiting payment options, critics may argue that the law could reduce participation rates and ultimately affect the lottery's financial contributions to state programs funded by lottery revenues. Thus, the debate surrounding SB1355 may center around balancing regulatory control with fiscal considerations.