Lawmakers say lottery OK; have problem with bingo
What do Tennessee lawmakers have against bingo and veterans and fraternal clubs?
While the General Assembly has embraced a new state lottery and the millions in revenue that come with it, lawmakers seem to have a curious hang-up when it comes to allowing private groups to play bingo.
They also seem to suspect the motives of fraternal organizations such as the Moose, Elks and other veterans groups when it comes to games of chance. Schools and churches are trustworthy, it would seem, but members of fraternal orders and those who’ve served their country aren’t.
That’s not only illogical on its face, it’s insulting to organizations which have exemplary records of service to the community. When voters approved a constitutional amendment allowing a state lottery in 2002, they authorized the legislature to allow charitable organizations to have annual lottery-type, fund-raising events. Most voters probably thought that included veterans and fraternal groups.
It doesn’t.
This session, legislation has been filed allowing charities to raise money with games of chance such as duck races, raffles and cakewalks. Sponsors hope to move the bill quickly through the General Assembly so such events can be held as early as July 1. But this legislation needs to be amended to include bingo and it should allow fraternal and veterans organizations to participate.
If a statewide lottery with weekly stakes in the millions of dollars can be run with integrity, so can a small-stakes bingo game at a Moose lodge, church or VFW hall. If that’s a gamble, it’s one well worth taking.