# Criminal Law (GCR)

## Title 13. Gaming -- Local Provisions

### Subtitle 26. Worcester County

#### Section 13-2621

(a) The county commissioners may issue a permit to any of the following organizations to conduct a fundraiser at which merchandise or money prizes may be awarded by gaming devices:

  (1) a bona fide religious organization that has conducted religious services at the same location in the county for at least 3 years before applying for a permit;

  (2) a volunteer fire company that is supported by the county or a municipal corporation in the county or an auxiliary unit whose members are directly associated with the volunteer fire company or auxiliary unit;

  (3) a nationally chartered veterans' organization or an auxiliary unit whose members are directly associated with the veterans' organization;

  (4) a bona fide nonprofit fraternal, educational, civic, patriotic, or charitable organization that intends to conduct a fundraiser for the benefit of a charity located in the county; or

  (5) a bona fide nonprofit organization that:

    (i) intends to raise money for an exclusively charitable, athletic, or educational purpose that is specifically described in the permit application; and

    (ii) has operated as a nonprofit organization in the county for at least 3 years before applying for a permit.

(b) The county commissioners shall determine whether an organization qualifies for a permit under this section.

(c) An organization must be organized in and serve the residents of the county to be eligible for a permit under this section.

(d) An organization that is exempt from taxation under Sec. 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code is a bona fide charity under this section.

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Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)