Alabama Charitable Gaming Laws

Is Bingo legal in Alabama?

Bingo is legal in Alabama in a number of counties that have adopted a constitutional amendment authorizing bingo for charitable purposes to be conducted by the charity itself and, in general, this is overseen by the Sheriff of each County or the Chief of Police of a city such as Jasper that has an independent constitutional amendment authorizing Bingo.

Jefferson County - Amendments 386 and 600
Sec. 2. Bingo.

The operation of bingo games for prizes or money by nonprofit organizations for charitable or educational purposes shall be legal in Jefferson county, subject to the provisions of any resolution or ordinance by the county governing body or the governing bodies of the respective cities and towns, within their respective jurisdictions. The said governing bodies shall have the authority to promulgate rules and regulations for the licensing and operation of bingo games, within their respective jurisdictions, provided, however, that said governing bodies must insure compliance with the following provisions:
(a) No person under the age of 19 shall be permitted to play any game or games of bingo, nor shall any person under the age of 19 be permitted to conduct or assist in the conduct of any game of bingo;

(b) No bingo license shall be issued to any nonprofit organization, unless such organization shall have been in existence for at least 24 months immediately prior to the issuance of the license;

(c) Bingo games shall be operated only on the premises owned or leased by the nonprofit organization operating the bingo game. If the premises is leased, the rate of rental shall not be based on a percentage of receipts or profits resulting from the operation of bingo games;

(d) No nonprofit organization shall enter into any contract with any individual, firm, association or corporation to have said individual or entity operate bingo games or concessions on behalf of the nonprofit organization, nor shall said nonprofit organization pay consulting fees to any individual or entity for any services performed in relation to the operation or conduct of a bingo game;

(e) A nonprofit organization shall not lend its name or allow its identity to be used by any other person or entity in the operating or advertising of a bingo game in which said nonprofit organization is not directly and solely operating said bingo game;

(f) (f) Prizes given by any nonprofit organization for the playing of bingo games shall not exceed $1,200.00 in cash or gifts of equivalent value during any bingo session or $2,400.00 in cash or gifts of equivalent value during any calendar week;

(g) No person or organization, by whatever name or composition thereof, shall take any salary, expense money, or fees as remuneration for services rendered in the operation of any bingo game.

(Amendment 386, as amended by Amendment 600.)
Madison County - Amendment 387

Sec. 1. Bingo.
The operation of bingo games for prizes or money by nonprofit organizations for charitable or educational purposes shall be legal in Madison county, subject to the provisions of any resolution or ordinance by the county governing body or the governing bodies of the respective cities and towns, within their respective jurisdictions. The said governing bodies shall have the authority to promulgate rules and regulations for the licensing and operation of bingo games, within their respective jurisdictions, provided, however, that said governing bodies must insure compliance with the following provisions:
(a) No person under the age of 19 shall be permitted to play any game or games of bingo, nor shall any person under the age of 19 be permitted to conduct or assist in the conduct of any game of bingo;

(b) No bingo license shall be issued to any nonprofit organization, unless such organization shall have been in existence for at least 23 months immediately prior to the issuance of the license;

(c) Bingo games shall be operated only on the premises owned or leased by the nonprofit organization operating the bingo game. If the premises is leased, the rate of rental shall not be based on a percentage of receipts or profits resulting from the operation of bingo games;

(d) No nonprofit organization shall enter into any contract with any individual, firm, association or corporation to have said individual or entity operate bingo games or concessions on behalf of the nonprofit organization, nor shall said nonprofit organization pay consulting fees to any individual or entity for any services performed in relation to the operation or conduct of a bingo game;

(e) A nonprofit organization shall not lend its name or allow its identity to be used by any other person or entity in the operating or advertising of a bingo game in which said nonprofit organization is not directly and solely operating said bingo game;

(f) Prizes given by any nonprofit organization for the playing of bingo games shall not exceed $1,000.00 in cash or gifts of equivalent value during any bingo session or $2,000.00 in cash or gifts of equivalent value during any calendar week;

(g) No person or organization, by whatever name or composition thereof, shall take any salary, expense money, or fees as remuneration for services rendered in the operation of any bingo game.

Montgomery County - Amendment 413
Sec. 1. Bingo.
The operation of bingo games for prizes or money by certain nonprofit organizations for charitable, educational, or other lawful purposes shall be legal in Montgomery county, subject to the provisions of any resolution or ordinance by the county governing body or the governing bodies of the respective cities and towns, within their respective jurisdictions as provided by law regulating such operation. The said governing bodies shall have the authority to promulgate rules and regulations for the issuance of permits or licenses and for operation of bingo games, within their respective jurisdictions; provided, however, that said governing bodies must insure compliance pursuant to said law and the following provisions:

(a) No person under the age of 19 shall be permitted to play any game or games of bingo, unless accompanied by a parent or guardian; nor shall any person under the age of 19 be permitted to conduct or assist in the conduct of any game of bingo;

(b) No bingo permit or license shall be issued to any nonprofit organization, unless such organization shall have been in existence for at least 12 months immediately prior to the issuance of the permit or license;

(c) Bingo games shall be operated only on the premises owned or leased by the nonprofit organization operating the bingo game. If the premises is leased, the rate or rental shall not be based on a percentage of receipts or profits resulting from the operation of bingo games;

(d) No nonprofit organization shall enter into any contract with any individual, firm, association or corporation to have said individual or entity operate bingo games or concessions on behalf of the nonprofit organization, nor shall said nonprofit organization pay consulting fees to any individual or entity for any services performed in relation to the operation or conduct of a bingo game;

(e) A nonprofit organization shall not lend its name or allow its identity to be used by any other person or entity in the operating or advertising of a bingo game in which said nonprofit organization is not directly and solely operating said bingo game;

(f) Prizes given by any qualified nonprofit organization for the playing of bingo games shall not exceed the cash amount or gifts of equivalent value, set by the legislature, during any bingo session. The legislature shall set a maximum amount for any calendar week.

(g) No person or organization, by whatever name or composition thereof, shall take any expenses for the operation of a bingo game except as permitted by law.

Mobile County - Amendment 440
Sec. 1. Bingo.
The operation of bingo games for prizes or money by certain nonprofit organizations for charitable, educational, or other lawful purposes shall be legal in Mobile county, subject to the provisions of any resolution or ordinance by the county governing body or the governing bodies of the respective cities and towns, within their respective jurisdictions as provided by law regulating such operation. The said governing bodies shall have the authority to promulgate rules and regulations for the issuance of permits or licenses and for operation of bingo games, within their respective jurisdictions; provided, however, that said governing bodies must ensure compliance pursuant to said law and the following provisions:

(a) No person under the age of 19 shall be permitted to play any game or games of bingo, unless accompanied by a parent or guardian; nor shall any person under the age of 19 be permitted to conduct or assist in the conduct of any game of bingo;

(b) No bingo permit or license shall be issued to any nonprofit organization, unless such organization shall have been in existence for at least 12 months immediately prior to the issuance of the permit or license;

(c) Bingo games shall be operated only on the premises owned or leased by the nonprofit organization operating the bingo game. If the premises is leased, the rate or rental shall not be based on a percentage of receipts or profits resulting from the operation of bingo games;

(d) No nonprofit organization shall enter into any contract with any individual, firm, association or corporation to have said individual or entity operate bingo games or concessions on behalf of the nonprofit organization, nor shall said nonprofit organization pay consulting fees to any individual or entity for any services performed in relation to the operation or conduct of a bingo game;

(e) A nonprofit organization shall not lend its name or allow its identity to be used by any other person or entity in the operating or advertising of a bingo game in which said nonprofit organization is not directly and solely operating said bingo game;

(f) Prizes given by any qualified nonprofit organization for the playing of bingo games shall not exceed the cash amount or gifts of equivalent value, set by the legislature, during any bingo session. The legislature shall set a maximum amount for any calendar week;

(g) No person or organization, by whatever name or composition thereof, shall take any expenses for the operation of a bingo game except as permitted by law.

The provisions of this constitutional amendment shall be self-executing, but the legislature shall have the right and power by general, special or local act to adopt laws supplemental to this amendment or in furtherance of the general purposes and objectives herein set forth.

Etowah County - Amendment 506
Sec. 2. Bingo.
The operation of bingo games for prizes or money by certain nonprofit organizations for charitable or educational purposes shall be legal in Etowah county, subject to the provisions of any resolution by the county commission. The county commission shall have the authority to promulgate rules and regulations for the issuance of permits or licenses and for operation of bingo games; provided, however, the county commission must insure compliance pursuant to said law and the following provisions:

(a) No person under the age of 19 shall be permitted to play any game or games of bingo, unless accompanied by a parent or guardian; nor shall any person under the age of 19 be permitted to conduct or assist in the conduct of any game of bingo;

(b) No bingo permit or license shall be issued to any nonprofit organization, unless such organization shall have been in existence for at least 5 years immediately prior to the issuance of the permit or license except the tax-exempt Etowah county council on aging is exempt from the time requirement;

(c) Bingo games shall be operated only on the premises owned or leased by the nonprofit organization operating the bingo game. If the premises is leased, the rate or rental shall not be based on a percentage of receipts or profits resulting from the operation of bingo games;

(d) No nonprofit organization shall enter into any contract with any individual, firm, association or corporation to have said individual or entity operate bingo games or concessions on behalf of the nonprofit organization, nor shall said nonprofit organization pay consulting fees nor any compensation nor salary to any individual or entity for any services performed in relation to the operation or conduct of a bingo game;

(e) A nonprofit organization shall not lend its name or allow its identity to be used by any other person or entity in the operating or advertising of a bingo game in which said nonprofit organization is not directly and solely operating said bingo game;

(f) Prizes given by any qualified nonprofit organization for the playing of bingo games shall not exceed the cash amount or gifts of equivalent value, set by the legislature, during any bingo session. The legislature shall set a maximum amount for any calendar week.

(g) No person or organization, by whatever name or composition thereof, shall take any expenses for the operation of a bingo game except as permitted by law.

The provisions of this constitutional amendment shall be self-executing, but the legislature shall have the right and power by general, special or local act to adopt laws supplemental to this amendment or in furtherance of the general purposes and objectives herein set forth.

Calhoun County - Amendment 508
Sec. 1. Bingo.
The operation of bingo games for prizes or money by certain nonprofit organizations for charitable, educational, or other lawful purposes shall be legal in Calhoun county, subject to the provisions of any resolution or ordinance by the county governing body or the governing bodies of the respective cities and towns, within their respective jurisdictions as provided by law regulating such operation. The said governing bodies shall have the authority to promulgate rules and regulations for the issuance of permits or licenses and for operation of bingo games, within their respective jurisdictions; provided, however, that said governing bodies must ensure compliance pursuant to said law and the following provisions:

(a) No person under the age of 19 shall be permitted to play any game or games of bingo, unless accompanied by a parent or guardian; nor shall any person under the age of 19 be permitted to conduct or assist in the conduct of any game of bingo;

(b) No bingo permit or license shall be issued to any nonprofit organization, unless such organization shall have been in existence for at least 12 months immediately prior to the issuance of the permit or license;

(c) Bingo games shall be operated only on the premises owned or leased by the nonprofit organization operating the bingo game. If the premises is leased, the rate or rental shall not be based on a percentage of receipts or profits resulting from the operation of bingo games;

(d) No nonprofit organization shall enter into any contract with any individual, firm, association or corporation to have said individual or entity operate bingo games or concessions on behalf of the nonprofit organization, nor shall said nonprofit organization pay consulting fees to any individual or entity for any services performed in relation to the operation or conduct of a bingo game;

(e) A nonprofit organization shall not lend its name or allow its identity to be used by any other person or entity in the operating or advertising of a bingo game in which said nonprofit organization is not directly and solely operating said bingo game;

(f) Prizes given by any qualified nonprofit organization for the playing of bingo games shall not exceed the cash amount or gifts of equivalent value, set by the legislature, during any bingo session. The legislature shall set a maximum amount for any calendar week;

(g) No person or organization, by whatever name or composition thereof, shall take any expenses for the operation of a bingo game except as permitted by law.

The provisions of this constitutional amendment shall be self-executing, but the legislature shall have the right and power by general, special or local act to adopt laws supplemental to this amendment or in furtherance of the general purposes and objectives herein set forth.

§ 45-8-150.01. Bingo games authorized.
The operation of bingo games for prizes or money by certain nonprofit organizations for charitable, educational, or other lawful purposes shall be legal in Calhoun County subject to this article.

§ 45-8-150.07. Bingo games -- Charitable or educational purposes of proceeds.
(a) All of the net proceeds of a bingo game shall be designated and expended for charitable or educational purposes. Provided, however, in no event shall less than 10 percent of the gross proceeds be designated for charitable or educational purposes. Net proceeds shall include gross proceeds less reasonable expenses incurred or paid in connection with the holding, operating, or conducting of bingo games, including all of the following bona fide expenses, in reasonable amounts:

(1) The purchase or rental of equipment necessary for conducting bingo games and payment of services reasonably necessary for the repair and maintenance of equipment.

(2) The payment of cash prizes or the purchase of prizes or merchandise.

(3) The actual rental or mortgage payment on the location at which bingo is conducted or a pro rata share if the building is used for other purposes in addition to the operation of bingo games. The rental or mortgage payment shall be reasonable as compared to the fair rental value or fair market value of similar property located in the area where the bingo games are conducted.

(4) Actual insurance or a pro rata share if the building is used for other purposes in addition to the operation of bingo games.

(5) Utilities or a pro rata share if the building is used for other purposes in addition to the operation of bingo games.

(6) Janitorial services or a pro rata share if the building is used for other purposes in addition to the operation of bingo games.

(7) The fee required for issuance or reissuance of a permit to conduct bingo, including the fee to be collected by the governing body and paid to the Calhoun County Bingo Regulatory Commission.

(8) Security personnel or a pro rata share if the building is used for other purposes in addition to the operation of bingo games.

(9) Accountant fees in connection with the preparing and filing of financial statements required by this article.

(10) A reserve for a cash operating account not to exceed fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000).

(11) Other reasonable expenses incurred by the permit holder, not inconsistent with this article.

(b) Each permit holder shall transfer the proceeds for charity or education to the charity or educational agency at the end of each calendar quarter or place the proceeds in a separate account for the benefit of charity or education in an interest bearing trust account at the end of each calendar quarter. If the proceeds are placed in a trust account they shall be transferred to the charity or educational agency at the end of the next calendar quarter preceding the transfer.

St. Clair County - Amendment 542
Sec. 2. Bingo.
The operation of bingo games for prizes or money by certain nonprofit organizations for charitable, educational, or other lawful purposes shall be legal in St. Clair County, subject to the provisions of any resolution or ordinance by the county governing body or the governing bodies of the respective cities and towns within their respective jurisdictions as provided by law regulating such operation. The said governing bodies shall have the authority to promulgate rules and regulations for the issuance of permits or licenses and for operation of bingo games within their respective jurisdictions; provided, however, that said governing bodies must insure compliance pursuant to said law and the following provisions:

(1) No person under the age of 19 shall be permitted to play any game or games of bingo unless accompanied by a parent or guardian; nor shall any person under the age of 19 be permitted to conduct or assist in the conduct of any game of bingo;

(2) No bingo permit or license shall be issued to any nonprofit organization unless such organization shall have been in existence for at least 24 months immediately prior to the issuance of the permit or license;

(3) Bingo games shall be operated only on the premises owned or leased by the nonprofit organization operating the bingo game. If the premises is leased, the rate or rental shall not be based on a percentage of receipts or profits resulting from the operation of bingo games;

(4) No nonprofit organization shall enter into any contract with any individual, firm, association or corporation to have said individual or entity operate bingo games or concessions on behalf of the nonprofit organization, nor shall said nonprofit organization pay consulting fees to any individual or entity for any services performed in relation to the operation or conduct of a bingo game;

(5) A nonprofit organization shall not lend its name or allow its identity to be used by any other person or entity in the operating or advertising of a bingo game in which said nonprofit organization is not directly and solely operating said bingo game;

(6) Prizes given by any qualified nonprofit organization for the playing of bingo games shall not exceed the cash amount or gifts of equivalent value, set by the legislature, during any bingo session. The legislature shall set a maximum amount for any calendar week;

(7) By whatever name or composition thereof, no person or organization shall take any expenses for the operation of a bingo game except as permitted by law.

(8) A fee of $.10 (ten cents) shall be levied upon each bingo card sold pursuant to the provisions of this amendment or pursuant to any local law. Said fee shall be collected by the nonprofit organization who sold the bingo card and paid to the tax collector or revenue commissioner of St. Clair County on a weekly basis. The tax collector or revenue commissioner shall place the proceeds collected into the treasury of St. Clair County in a special fund. All funds collected shall be expended by the county commission in the following manner:

40% (forty percent) of said funds shall be allocated to volunteer fire departments located in St. Clair County;

30% (thirty percent) of said funds shall be allocated to senior citizens' programs and facilities;

20% (twenty percent) of said funds shall be allocated to youth recreation programs and facilities;

10% (ten percent) of said funds shall be allocated to the St. Clair County sheriff's department.

The tax collector or revenue commissioner of St. Clair County shall have authority to promulgate necessary rules and regulations to implement the procedure for the collection of the fee prescribed herein. The legislature, from time to time, may by local law alter the fee levied herein and alter the method of allocating the proceeds of said fee.

Walker County - Amendment 549
Sec. 1. Bingo.
The operation of bingo games for prizes or money by certain nonprofit organizations for charitable, educational, or other lawful purposes shall be legal outside of the corporate limits of the City of Jasper in Walker County, subject to any resolution by the county governing body as provided by law regulating the operation of bingo. The governing body may promulgate rules and regulations for issuing permits or licenses, and for operating bingo games, within its respective jurisdiction. The county governing body shall insure compliance pursuant to any ordinance and the following:

(1) No person under the age of 19 shall be permitted to play any game or games of bingo, unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. No person under the age of 19 shall be permitted to conduct or assist in the conduct of any game of bingo.

(2) No bingo permit or license shall be issued to any nonprofit organization, unless the organization shall have been in existence for at least 60 months and owned real property at least five years immediately prior to issuing the permit or license.

(3) Bingo games shall be operated only on the premises owned or leased by the nonprofit organization operating the bingo game. If the premises are leased, the rate or rental shall not be based on a percentage of receipts or profits resulting from operating the bingo games.

(4) No nonprofit organization shall enter into any contract with any individual, firm, association, or corporation to have the individual or entity operate bingo games or concessions on behalf of the nonprofit organization. No nonprofit organization may pay consulting fees to any individual or entity for any services performed relating to operating or conducting any bingo game.

(5) A nonprofit organization shall not lend its name or allow any other person or entity to use its identity in operating or advertising a bingo game in which the nonprofit organization is not directly and solely operating the bingo game.

(6) Prizes given by any qualified nonprofit organization for playing bingo games shall not exceed the cash amount or gifts of equivalent value, set by the Legislature, during any bingo session. The Legislature shall set a maximum amount for any calendar week.

(7) No person or organization, by whatever name or composition, shall take any expenses for operating a bingo game except as permitted by law.

City of Jasper - Amendment 550
Sec. 12. Bingo.
The operation of bingo games for prizes or money by certain nonprofit organizations for charitable, educational, or other lawful purposes shall be legal in the corporate limits of the City of Jasper in Walker County, subject to any resolution or ordinance by the city governing body as provided by law regulating the operation of bingo. The governing body may promulgate rules and regulations for issuing permits or licenses, and for operating bingo games, within its respective jurisdiction. The governing body of the City of Jasper shall insure compliance pursuant to any ordinance and the following:

(1) No person under the age of 19 shall be permitted to play any game or games of bingo, unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. No person under the age of 19 shall be permitted to conduct or assist in the conduct of any game of bingo.

(2) No bingo permit or license shall be issued to any nonprofit organization, unless the organization shall have been in existence for at least 60 months and owned real property in the City of Jasper for five years immediately prior to issuing the permit or license.

(3) Bingo games shall be operated only on the premises owned or leased by the nonprofit organization operating the bingo game. If the premises are leased, the rate or rental shall not be based on a percentage of receipts or profits resulting from operating the bingo games.

(4) No nonprofit organization shall enter into any contract with any individual, firm, association, or corporation to have the individual or entity operate bingo games or concessions on behalf of the nonprofit organization. No nonprofit organization may pay consulting fees to any individual or entity for any services performed relating to operating or conducting any bingo game.

(5) A nonprofit organization shall not lend its name or allow any other person or entity to use its identity in operating or advertising a bingo game in which the nonprofit organization is not directly and solely operating the bingo game.

(6) Prizes given by any qualified nonprofit organization for playing bingo games shall not exceed the cash amount or gifts of equivalent value, set by the Legislature, during any bingo session. The Legislature shall set a maximum amount for any calendar week.

(7) No person or organization, by whatever name or composition, shall take any expenses for operating a bingo game except as permitted by law.

Covington County - Amendment 565
Sec. 1. Bingo.
(a) The operation of bingo games for prizes or money by certain nonprofit organizations and certain private clubs for charitable, educational, or other lawful purposes shall be legal in Covington County, subject to any resolution or ordinance by the county commission as provided by law regulating the operation of bingo. The county commission may promulgate rules and regulations for issuing permits or licenses and for operating bingo games within the county. The county commission shall insure compliance pursuant to any ordinance and the following:

(1) No person under the age of 19 shall be permitted to play any game or games of bingo, unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. No person under the age of 19 shall be permitted to conduct or assist in the conduct of any game of bingo.

(2) Except for special permit holders, no bingo permit or license shall be issued to any nonprofit organization, unless the organization has been in existence for at least five years and has owned real property in the county for five years immediately prior to the issuance of the permit or license.

(3) Bingo games shall be operated only on the premises owned or leased by the nonprofit organization or club operating the bingo game. If the premises are leased, the rate of rental shall not be based on a percentage of receipts or profits resulting from operating the bingo games.

(4) No nonprofit organization or club shall enter into any contract with any individual, firm, association, or corporation to have the individual or entity operate bingo games or concessions on behalf of the nonprofit organization. A nonprofit organization may not pay consulting fees or any compensation or salary to any individual or entity for any services performed relating to operating or conducting any bingo game.

(5) A nonprofit organization may not lend its name or allow any other person or entity to use its identity in operating or advertising a bingo game in which the nonprofit organization is not directly and solely operating the bingo game or concessions.

(6) One hundred percent of the net revenues derived from operating bingo games shall be designated and expended for charitable or educational purposes.

(7) No person or organization, by whatever name or composition, shall take any expenses for operating a bingo game except as permitted by law.

(b) The Legislature may, by local legislation, provide for the implementation of this amendment, including, but not limited to, the imposition of criminal penalties for violations of this amendment or the local legislation.

Houston County - Amendment 569
Sec. 1. Bingo.
(a) The operation of bingo games for prizes or money by certain nonprofit organizations and certain private clubs for charitable, educational, or other lawful purposes shall be legal in Houston County, subject to any resolution or ordinance by the county commission as provided by law regulating the operation of bingo. The county commission may promulgate rules and regulations for issuing permits or licenses and for operating bingo games within the county jurisdiction. The county commission shall insure compliance pursuant to any ordinance and the following:

(1) No person under the age of 19 shall be permitted to play any game or games of bingo, unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. No person under the age of 19 shall be permitted to conduct or assist in the conduct of any game of bingo.

(2) Except for special permit holders, no bingo permit or license shall be issued to any nonprofit organization or qualified private club, unless the organization or club shall have been in existence for at least five years and owned real property in the county for five years immediately prior to issuing the permit or license, except the following:

a. A fraternal, or benevolent, or charitable organization which qualifies as an exempt organization under Section 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code.

b. A private club with annual membership dues of three hundred dollars ($300) or more.

(3) Bingo games shall be operated only on the premises owned or leased by the nonprofit organization or club operating the bingo game. If the premises are leased, the rate or rental shall not be based on a percentage of receipts or profits resulting from operating the bingo games.

(4) No nonprofit organization or club shall enter into any contract with any individual, firm, association, or corporation to have the individual or entity operate bingo games or concessions on behalf of the nonprofit organization of [or] club. No nonprofit organization or club may pay consulting fees, any compensation or salary to any individual or entity for any services performed relating to operating or conducting any bingo game.

(5) A nonprofit organization or club shall not lend its name or allow any other person or entity to use its identity in operating or advertising a bingo game in which the nonprofit organization or club is not directly and solely operating the bingo game or concessions.

(6) Prizes given by any qualified nonprofit organization or qualified private club for playing bingo games shall not exceed the cash amount or gifts of equivalent value, set by the Legislature, during any bingo session. The Legislature shall set a maximum amount for any calendar week.

(7) One hundred percent of the net revenues derived from operating bingo games shall be designated and expended for charitable or educational purposes.

(8) No person, or organization, or club, by whatever name or composition, shall take any expenses for operating a bingo game except as permitted by law.

(b) The Legislature may, by local legislation, provide for the implementation of this amendment, including, but not limited to, the imposition of criminal penalties for violations of this amendment or the local legislation.

(c) This amendment shall not become effective unless approved at a referendum by a majority of the qualified electors of Houston County voting on the proposition. The referendum shall be held at the same time as the election for the ratification of this amendment, as provided for in Section 2 of this act [Section 2 of Act 94-606], and no further election shall be required.

(d) Act No. 93-333, H. 717 of the 1993 Regular Session is repealed.

Morgan County- Amendment 599
Sec. 1. Bingo.
(a) The operation of bingo games for prizes or money by nonprofit organizations for charitable, educational, or other lawful purposes shall be legal only within the boundaries of the Cities of Hartselle and Falkville and that area of the City of Decatur located within the boundaries of Morgan County, subject to any resolution or ordinance by the governing bodies of the respective cities and towns, within their respective jurisdictions. The governing bodies may promulgate rules and regulations for the licensing and operation of bingo games, within their respective jurisdictions. The governing bodies shall insure compliance pursuant to any ordinance and the following:

(1) No person under the age of 19 years shall be permitted to play any game or games of bingo, nor shall any person under the age of 19 years be permitted to conduct or assist in the operation of any game of bingo.

(2) No bingo license shall be issued to any nonprofit organization, unless the organization shall have been in existence for at least three years in the county immediately prior to the issuance of the permit or license.

(3) Bingo games shall be operated only on the premises owned or leased by the nonprofit organization operating the bingo game. If the premises are leased, the rate of rental shall not be based on a percentage of receipts or profits resulting from the operation of bingo games.

(4) No nonprofit organization shall enter into any contract with any individual, firm, association, or corporation to have the individual or entity operate bingo games or concessions on behalf of the nonprofit organization. No nonprofit organization shall pay consulting fees to any individual or entity for any services performed in relation to the operation or conduct of a bingo game.

(5) A nonprofit organization shall not lend its name or allow its identity to be used by any other person or entity in the operating or advertising of a bingo game in which the nonprofit organization is not directly and solely operating the bingo game.

(6) Prizes given by any nonprofit organization for the playing of bingo games shall not exceed the cash amount or gifts of equivalent value set by the Legislature during any bingo session during any calendar week.

(7) No person or organization, by whatever name or composition thereof, shall take any expense for the operation of a bingo game except as permitted by law.

(b) The Legislature may, by local legislation, provide for the implementation of this amendment, including, but not limited to, the imposition of criminal penalties for violations of this amendment or the local legislation.

(c) The Legislature, may by local law, provide for the operation of bingo games for prizes or money by nonprofit organizations for charitable, educational, or other lawful purposes within any other city located within the boundaries of Morgan County pursuant to subsection (a) of Section 1 of this constitutional amendment.

Russell County - Amendment 612
Sec. 1. Bingo.
(a) The operation of bingo games for prizes or money by certain nonprofit organizations and certain private clubs for charitable, educational, or other lawful purposes shall be legal in Russell County, subject to any resolution or ordinance by the county commission as provided by law regulating the operation of bingo. The county commission may promulgate rules and regulations for issuing permits or licenses and for operating bingo games within the jurisdiction of the county. The county commission shall insure compliance pursuant to any ordinance and the following:

(1) No person under the age of 19 shall be permitted to play any game or games of bingo, unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. No person under the age of 19 shall be permitted to conduct or assist in the conduct of any game of bingo.

(2) Except for special permit holders, no bingo permit or license shall be issued to any nonprofit organization or qualified private club, unless the organization or club shall have been in existence for at least five years and owned real property in the county for five years immediately prior to issuing the permit or license, except the following:

a. A fraternal, or benevolent, or charitable organization which qualifies as an exempt organization under Section 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code.

b. A private club with annual membership dues of three hundred dollars ($300) or more.

(3) Bingo games shall be operated only on the premises owned or leased by the nonprofit organization or club operating the bingo game. If the premises are leased, the rate or rental shall not be based on a percentage of receipts or profits resulting from operating the bingo games.

(4) No nonprofit organization or club shall enter into any contract with any individual, firm, association, or corporation to have the individual or entity operate bingo games or concessions on behalf of the nonprofit organization or club. No nonprofit organization or club may pay consulting fees, any compensation or salary to any individual or entity for any services performed relating to operating or conducting any bingo game.

(5) A nonprofit organization or club shall not lend its name or allow any other person or entity to use its identity in operating or advertising a bingo game in which the nonprofit organization or club is not directly and solely operating the bingo game or concessions.

(6) Prizes given by any qualified nonprofit organization or qualified private club for playing bingo games shall not exceed the cash amount or gifts of equivalent value, set by the Legislature, during any bingo session. The Legislature shall set a maximum amount for any calendar week.

(7) One hundred percent of the net revenues derived from operating bingo games shall be designated and expended for charitable or educational purposes.

(8) No person, or organization or club, by whatever name or composition, shall take any expenses for operating a bingo game except as permitted by law.

(b) The Legislature may, by local legislation, provide for the implementation of this amendment, including, but not limited to, the imposition of criminal penalties for violations of this amendment or the local legislation

Lowndes County - Amendment 674
Town of White Hall
Sec. 3. Bingo.
(a) The operation of bingo games for prizes or money by nonprofit organizations for charitable, educational, or other lawful purposes shall be legal in The Town of White Hall that is located in Lowndes County, subject to any resolution or ordinance by the town council. The town council shall have the authority to promulgate rules and regulations for the licensing and operation of bingo games, within its respective jurisdictions provided, however, the town council shall insure compliance pursuant to any ordinance and the following provisions:

(1) No person under the age of 18 years shall be permitted to play any game or games of bingo, nor shall any person under the age of 19 years be permitted to conduct or assist in the operation of any game of bingo.

(2) No bingo license shall be issued to any nonprofit organization, unless the organization shall have been in existence for at least two years immediately prior to the issuance of the permit or license.

(3) Bingo games shall be operated only on the premises owned or leased by the nonprofit organization operating the bingo game. If the premises are leased, the rate of rental shall not be based on a percentage of receipts or profits resulting from the operation of bingo games.

(4) No nonprofit organization shall enter into any contract with any individual, firm, association, or corporation to have the individual or entity operate bingo games or concessions on behalf of the nonprofit organization. No nonprofit organization shall pay consulting fees to any individual or entity for any services performed in relation to the operation or conduct of a bingo game.

(5) A nonprofit organization shall not lend its name or allow its identity to be used by another person or entity in the operating or advertising of a bingo game in which the nonprofit organization is not directly and solely operating the bingo game.

(6) Prizes given by any nonprofit organization for the playing of bingo games shall not exceed the cash amount or gifts of equivalent value set by regulations.

(7) No person or organization, by whatever name or composition thereof, shall take any expense for the operation of a bingo game except as permitted by law. 

(b) The town council may provide for the implementation of this amendment by the adoption of any resolution or ordinance as provided heretofore.

(c) Any person who violates the regulations provided under the provisions of this amendment shall be guilty of a Class C misdemeanor upon the first conviction under this amendment and any subsequent violation shall be a Class A misdemeanor.

(8) Any person who violates the regulations provided under the provisions of this amendment shall be guilty of a Class C misdemeanor upon the first conviction under this amendment and any subsequent violation shall be a Class A misdemeanor.

Limestone County - Amendment 692
Sec. 1. Bingo
(a) The operation of bingo games for prizes or money by nonprofit organizations for charitable, educational, or other lawful purposes shall be legal in Limestone County, subject to any resolution or ordinance by the county commission. The county commission may promulgate rules and regulations for the licensing and operation of bingo games, within its respective jurisdictions. The governing body shall insure compliance pursuant to any ordinance and the following:

(1) No person under the age of 19 years shall be permitted to play any game or games of bingo, nor shall any person under the age of 19 years be permitted to conduct or assist in the operation of any game of bingo.

(2) No bingo license shall be issued to any nonprofit organization, unless the organization shall have been in existence for at least three years in the county immediately prior to the issuance of the permit or license.

(3) Bingo games shall be operated only on the premises owned or leased by the nonprofit organization operating the bingo game. If the premises are leased, the rate of rental shall not be based on a percentage of receipts or profits resulting from the operation of bingo games.

(4) No nonprofit organization shall enter into any contract with any individual, firm, association, or corporation to have the individual or entity operate bingo games or concessions on behalf of the nonprofit organization. No nonprofit organization shall pay consulting fees to any individual or entity for any services performed in relation to the operation or conduct of a bingo game.

(5) A nonprofit organization shall not lend its name or allow its identity to be used by another person or entity in the operating or advertising of a bingo game in which the nonprofit organization is not directly and solely operating the bingo game.

(6) Prizes given by any nonprofit organization for the playing of bingo games shall not exceed the cash amount or gifts of equivalent value set by the Legislature by local law during any bingo session during any calendar week.

(7) No person or organization, by whatever name or composition thereof, shall take any expense for the operation of a bingo game except as permitted by law.

(b) The Legislature may, by local law, provide for the implementation of this amendment, including, but not limited to, the imposition of criminal penalties for violations of this amendment or the local legislation.

Macon County - Amendment 744
Sec. 1. Bingo.
The operation of bingo games for prizes or money by nonprofit organizations for charitable, educational, or other lawful purposes shall be legal in Macon County. The sheriff shall promulgate rules and regulations for the licensing and operation of bingo games within the county. The sheriff shall insure compliance pursuant to any rule or regulation and the following requirements:

(1) No person under the age of 19 years shall be permitted to play any game or games of bingo, nor shall any person under the age of 19 years be permitted to conduct or assist in the operation of any game of bingo.

(2) No bingo license shall be issued to any nonprofit organization, unless the organization shall have been in existence for at least three years in the county immediately prior to the issuance of the permit or license.

(3) Bingo games may be operated on the premises owned or leased by the nonprofit organization operating the bingo game.

(4) A nonprofit organization may enter into a contract with any individual, firm, association, or corporation to have the individual or entity operate bingo games or concessions on behalf of the nonprofit organization. A nonprofit organization may pay consulting fees to any individual or entity for any services performed in relation to the operation or conduct of a bingo game.

(5) A nonprofit organization may lend its name or allow its identity to be used by another person or entity in the operating or advertising of a bingo game in which the nonprofit organization is not directly and solely operating the bingo game.

(6) Prizes given by any nonprofit organization for the playing of bingo games shall not exceed the cash amount or gifts of equivalent value set by rule or regulation during any bingo session during any calendar week.