At least seven have posted poker runs on the Internet through March. The ruling will broadly affect motorcycle organizations across Texas. the nonprofit organization would become a custodian of a bet in violation (of the state Penal Code).' 'Even if the contribution goes to a charitable cause and the nonprofit organization will pay prizes from other money, a participant pays money for the chance to win a prize,' Abbott said. He said an organization that kept part of the proceeds for charity would violate the state's prohibition on gambling. At the end of the run, a cash prize is usually awarded for the best hand, the second-best hand and the worst hand.Ībbott ruled that a poker run with cash prizes would amount to a lottery under state law.

Poker runs typically have a participant paying a registration fee or have the motorcycle rider purchase cards or hands at various rally points. Attorney general rules motorcycle clubs' events are illegal gamblingĬopyright 2005 Houston Chronicle Austin BureauĪUSTIN - Motorcycle clubs that stage 'poker runs' for charity will find 2006 less bountiful because Attorney General Greg Abbott ruled Tuesday that such fundraisers amount to illegal gambling under Texas law.

Texas vfw gambling laws