Anyone understand gambling and lottery rules?

[daamazingmrhan]

Hi all,

New to the post here.

I have a new business venture I'd like to start, but it really depends on legalities. I have questions regarding US rules and regulations about online gaming (for money) and the lottery industry. Is there anyone that can help me out?

The business idea is simple. Essentially it requires people registering online for a fee, which automatically enters them into a prize drawing. After a certain number amount of people register, we do a blind drawing and we give away the gift.

Is this legal?

Thanks!

[meaghannf]

It varies between states and the laws here are very involved. Your best bet is to contact your state's gaming commission or visiting their website to learn about the laws in your area. Some places are much more restricted than others. For example, in the state of Maine, any sort of casino style event (whether money is being transfered or not!) is required to be registered and approved by the state gaming commission. I'm not sure you're going to get a solid answer here and I strongly recommend doing some outside research into this issue if you're truly interested in following up with this idea.