West Virginia 2026 Regular Session

West Virginia House Bill HB5396

Introduced
2/10/26  

Caption

Allow the use of credit cards for raffles.

Impact

By permitting credit card transactions, HB5396 seeks to adapt to modern payment preferences and trends. This legislative change could have a significant impact on how charities conduct their raffles, enhancing convenience for participants and improving financial oversight. Many organizations believe that allowing credit card use will attract younger donors and those who prefer electronic transactions over traditional cash payments. This adjustment could result in higher participation rates and more successful fundraising events.

Summary

House Bill 5396 aims to amend the West Virginia Code by allowing the use of credit cards for charitable raffles. Currently, participants mostly use cash or debit cards to purchase tickets for such events, which can limit fundraising opportunities for non-profit organizations. The introduction of credit card payments is expected to streamline the donation process and potentially increase revenue for charities that rely on these raffles as a source of funding.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB5396 appears to be generally positive among charitable organizations and advocates for increased fundraising efforts. Supporters highlight the adaptability and convenience that credit card payments can offer, thereby enhancing donor engagement and accessibility. However, there may be concerns regarding potential fees associated with credit card processing, which could affect the overall proceeds of the fundraising efforts. Balancing the ease of transactions with the financial implications remains a focal point of the debate.

Contention

While the proposal to allow credit card payments for charitable raffles is largely supported, there may be discussions regarding regulations around the use of such payments. Some stakeholders may argue for the necessity of oversight to prevent potential abuse or mismanagement of fundraisers that incorporate credit transactions. As a result, the bill may prompt discussions on how to safeguard against fraud while ensuring that charity raffle initiatives remain effective and beneficial to the community.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WV HB2491

Relating to conditions on holding online raffles

WV SB259

Licensing sale of charitable raffles and boards to benefit volunteer fire departments

WV HB2952

To allow a refundable child tax credit for all eligible for the federal tax credit

WV SB59

Requiring user photo on EBT cards

WV SB100

Allowing members of State Police retirement system to use accrued leave as credit toward retirement

WV HB2913

To allow a $1,000 refundable child tax credit for all eligible for the federal tax credit

WV SB467

Setting forth requirements for foster child clothing allowances

WV HB2766

Providing tax credits to provide vehicles to certain persons

WV HB2788

Allowing West Virginia State Police officers to bank sick leave and use it towards their years of service or to fund their health insurance

WV HB3212

To reduce the business license fee for WV Volunteer Fire Departments to $250

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.