Are online raffle sales permitted?
While there are no Massachusetts laws expressly regulating online raffle sales, certain regulations may operate to prevent online sales. For example, both the purchaser and the seller must sign the raffle ticket under 940 CMR 12.00 (Regulations Governing Raffles) if the prize is worth more than $10,000 or raffle tickets cost more than $10. In addition to state law, federal law may also apply. The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act, passed on October 13, 2006 (31 United States Code s. 5361-5366), restricts online gambling in states that do not require age and location verification. Massachusetts does not currently regulate online gambling. Nonprofit organizations seeking to conduct online raffles should be aware that such raffles may violate federal law and should first consult with their own attorney, as the Division provides advice only with respect to state law.