As previously reported by Skook News, Good Intent Hose Company announced that the raffles, which had become a significant source of funding for the volunteer fire company since 2020, were being halted immediately following the state directive.
The fire company said proceeds from the raffles helped pay for three fire apparatus, structural firefighting gear, portable radio upgrades, repairs and improvements to its facilities and grounds, as well as support for youth programs, an animal shelter and other community organizations.
Following the announcement, State Senator Dave Argall and State Representative Tim Twardzik expressed support for updating Pennsylvania law to allow volunteer fire companies and other eligible organizations to take advantage of modern payment technology for fundraising.
“Volunteer fire companies like the Good Intent Hose Company in Llewellyn provide an essential service to our communities, but they are increasingly being asked to do more with fewer resources. Fundraising is critical to keeping these companies equipped and ready to respond,” Argall said.
Argall pointed to Senate Bill 416, legislation he voted to support that would permit certain electronic payment methods for small games of chance.
“I voted to support Senate Bill 416, which would allow mobile payments for small games of chance,” Argall said. “The bill passed the Senate unanimously last year and is still waiting for House Leadership to schedule it for a vote after months of delay.”
Argall also called attention to legislation introduced in the House by Twardzik.
“The same leaders are delaying a vote on Rep. Tim Twardzik’s House Bill 962, the companion bill of Senate Bill 416,” Argall said. “It’s time for House Leadership to act on this legislation.”
Twardzik also told Skook News that he supports updating the current system to allow fire companies to use electronic payments.
The proposed legislation addresses electronic payment methods associated with small games of chance, an issue that has taken on greater importance as volunteer organizations increasingly use online and electronic platforms for fundraising.
Good Intent Hose Company previously said Pennsylvania's Local Option Small Games of Chance Act, originally enacted in 1988 and amended several times since, has not adequately kept pace with changes in technology and modern nonprofit fundraising.
Paul Kennedy, public information officer for Good Intent Hose Company, said in the company's original announcement that the organization intends to comply with the state's directive while working with legal counsel and lawmakers on potential reforms.
“Our responsibility is to operate within the law,” Kennedy said. “At the same time, we believe Pennsylvania needs to have a conversation about how its Small Games of Chance laws apply to modern technology and modern fundraising. We intend to be part of that conversation.”
Good Intent said the issue reaches beyond the Llewellyn fire company, noting that volunteer fire departments and nonprofit organizations across Pennsylvania depend heavily on fundraising to purchase equipment, maintain facilities and continue providing services to their communities.
While its weekly online raffles remain suspended, Good Intent Hose Company will continue with other fundraising activities, including its bi-weekly bingo events and upcoming Chinese auction.