We're a group of HS students going to NYC to learn about startups | Hacker News Reader

We're a group of HS students going to NYC to learn about startups

rafflecreator.com

44 pointsjwoodbridge12 comments

The site makes me wonder what the legal situation of raffles with regards to gambling regulations in the US (or anywhere else) is? I know they are popular in schools. Are they are legal without having to acquire any permits, or are they are usually just to low profile to matter?

They are generally legal for non-profits, but it's complicated and depends on the state.

General information: http://www.nals.org/?p=1340

New York State: http://www.charitiesnys.com/pdfs/raffles.pdf

Please check into the legal implications of this and add some detailed CYA (cover your ass) terms to that page.

The way it is set up now is not legale in my province at least. (and most likely all of Canada )

Sweepstakes = gambling

Best of luck!

Side comment on: Raffle Creator -- while I love the idea I question the legality of it. While looking into doing various contest/raffle apps myself I was always stonewalled with legal issues. IANAL but I believe anytime you cross money with pure luck it is considered gambling and must be regulated.

I built something like this and abandoned it for that precise reason

Not sure if payment page really works. I tried entering a number for tickets and the amount remained $0.

Huh.. I can't get that to happen. Can you try refreshing. Sorry! I'll keep investigating.

I am using IE8 just in case you wanted to know.

Thanks a lot. trying to pull up a copy now to test.

so do you have any itenerary planned for your time in NYC?

It looks like we're going to spending most of time in-depth with Quirky and Fab if everything well, but we're looking for one more company to visit as well.

Why don't they just pay for you to intern there? Sounds like a fantastic opportunity for both sides.

Reply on news.ycombinator.com