Pennsylvania Nonprofits Will Rally for Raffle Reform

Fire companies seek legislative approval to resume online fundraising operations this September.

Updated on Sept. 27, 2026 in Philanthropy

Isometric editorial illustration of a large brass key resting on a stone block, representing regulatory reform in Pennsylvania. — Nonprofits, including the Good Intent Hose Company, will rally at the Pennsylvania Capitol on September 28 to urge lawmakers to advance legislation for online fundraising reform. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should the state relax current regulations on how local nonprofits can raise money?

The Good Intent Hose Company of Schuylkill County will organize a nonprofit rally at the Pennsylvania Capitol on September 28, 2026. This gathering aims to pressure state lawmakers to update Small Games of Chance laws.

Why it matters

Local fire companies require revenue from online raffles to maintain essential operations and purchase life-saving equipment. Current regulatory hurdles have forced many organizations to suspend these vital fundraising efforts.

Senate Bill 398 would authorize fire companies to conduct 2 online raffles per year, with the provision set to expire on December 31, 2026. Senate Bill 416 previously passed the state Senate in a unanimous 49-0 vote.

The players

Good Intent Hose Company

This Schuylkill County fire company provides emergency services and relies on community fundraising for its operations.

House Gaming Oversight Committee

This legislative body is responsible for reviewing and considering bills related to gambling and games of chance in Pennsylvania.

The details

Nonprofits are pushing for the advancement of Senate Bill 416, which permits electronic payments, and Senate Bill 398, which would authorize limited annual online raffles. The House Gaming Oversight Committee is scheduled to hear these measures following the rally.

The Pennsylvania Senate passed SB 416 in July 2025.
The Good Intent Hose Company suspended online raffles in August 2026.
A nonprofit rally is set for September 28, 2026, at the state Capitol.
The House Gaming Oversight Committee will consider the bills on September 29, 2026.
Authorization for these measures expires on December 31, 2026.

Market Landscape

The effort to modernize the Pennsylvania Small Games of Chance Act reflects a broader shift toward integrating digital payment systems into traditional non-profit fundraising. This legislative push aligns with national trends where volunteer organizations struggle to maintain fiscal viability against legacy regulatory frameworks.

Residents may see a return of online raffle opportunities for local fire companies if the legislation passes the House committee. This change would simplify participation for donors who prefer digital payments over traditional cash-based raffle ticket sales.

The takeaway

Advocates argue that legislative modernization is essential for the sustainability of local volunteer fire departments. Supporters can monitor the progress of the House committee hearing to see if electronic raffle payments become state-sanctioned tools for non-profit fundraising.