Kentucky Lawmakers Protect Charitable Gaming Lifeline for Nonprofits

Proposed legislation aims to strengthen oversight while preserving funding for community programs.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 3:20pm

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A warm, cinematic painting of a solitary bingo hall or charitable gaming venue, with soft light and deep shadows creating a nostalgic, community-driven atmosphere.Charitable gaming revenue provides a critical lifeline for Kentucky nonprofits, funding vital community programs and services across the state.Fancy Farm Today

Kentucky lawmakers are considering legislation that would maintain a responsible framework for charitable gaming, ensuring nonprofits can continue relying on this critical funding source to support their community programs and services. The bill recognizes the need for stability in charitable gaming regulations, while also creating an opportunity for a comprehensive review to identify areas for improvement.

Why it matters

Charitable gaming revenue is a vital lifeline for many Kentucky nonprofits, funding essential services like food pantries, veterans support, youth programs, and more. Changes to the charitable gaming laws could jeopardize this funding and put these important community initiatives at risk.

The details

House Bill 904 seeks to preserve the future of charitable gaming in Kentucky by maintaining a stable, well-regulated environment. The bill also establishes a task force to conduct a comprehensive review of the charitable gaming system, allowing lawmakers, regulators, and nonprofit leaders to identify areas for improvement while keeping the charitable mission at the center.

  • In 2024, charitable gaming delivered over $93 million directly to Kentucky charities.
  • House Bill 904 is currently being considered by the Kentucky General Assembly.

The players

Matthew Koch

Chairman of the Licensing, Occupations, and Administrative Regulations Committee in the Kentucky General Assembly.

Lori Smith

President of the Charitable Gaming Association of Kentucky, advocating for nonprofits, veterans organizations, and fraternal groups while advancing responsible gaming policies.

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What they’re saying

“Across the commonwealth, organizations like ours rely on charitable gaming revenue to keep programs running — putting food on pantry shelves, supporting veterans who served our country, funding youth programs that keep kids on the right path and helping neighbors through hard times.”

— Lori Smith, President, Charitable Gaming Association of Kentucky

“Lawmakers like Chairman Koch have shown a willingness to roll up their sleeves and work through these issues. HB 904 reflects that commitment — a measured effort to strengthen the system while protecting the charitable missions it supports.”

— Lori Smith, President, Charitable Gaming Association of Kentucky

What’s next

House Bill 904 and a companion resolution to establish a task force are currently being considered by the Kentucky General Assembly.

The takeaway

This legislation aims to maintain a responsible framework for charitable gaming in Kentucky, ensuring nonprofits can continue relying on this critical funding source to support essential community programs and services.