HARRISBURG – Local organizations dedicated to helping community residents with cancer and disabilities could benefit from new fundraising opportunities under a bill approved by the Senate today.
Under current law, many community-based organizations and non-profits are eligible to apply to the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB) for a wine and spirits auction permit for special events of up to four days with a payment of $30 per day.
Senate Bill 61, sponsored by Senator Judy Ward (R-30), would expand the list of eligible organizations to any non-profit organizations that has been in existence for at least five years, is registered with the PA Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations, and is also recognized as a community-based voluntary organization committed to fighting cancer; this would include a Blair County organization.
The bill would also enable The Arc of Blair County, which has provided vital services and programs in the community for individuals with disabilities and their families since 1954, to qualify for a special occasion permit and give additional fundraising opportunities to help them operate and continue to provide critical services.
“Our area is fortunate to have a number of amazing individuals and organizations who are dedicated to making life better for community residents who face extraordinary health challenges,” Ward said. “These groups and the people they serve deserve our support, and I am thankful that we are one step closer to giving them a new option to raise money.”
A number of types of organizations are already covered by the law, including groups that provide hospice care, service dogs for individuals with disabilities, emergency response, museum support, higher education, non-profit hospital services and many other volunteer and non-profit community groups.
Senate Bill 61 is on its way to the House of Representatives for consideration.
CONTACT: Cheryl Schriner (717) 787-5490