Ontario Breaks Open Red Tape to Support Charities in Nipissing
July 19, 2019NORTH BAY — Today, MPP Vic Fedeli announced new changes that will make life easier and more affordable for charities in Nipissing and the people who support them with their hard-earned money.
Fedeli announced the elimination of a burdensome provincial fee applied to the sale of break open tickets that has been tying up dollars that should be dedicated to charitable work. The change cuts red tape and will allow charities to contribute an additional $4 million to our communities.
As part of their fundraising, many charities rely on revenue from the sale of break open tickets. Removing the fee will help charities do more for people by ensuring more of the money they raise is used to support those most in need.
“To make life easier for charities and the people who hold them close to their hearts,” said Fedeli, “Ontario’s government is no longer charging charities an administrative fee on break open tickets so more revenues can support important causes and local communities in Nipissing.”
Break open ticket lottery events conducted by eligible charitable and religious organizations are regulated and licensed by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) in partnership with municipalities. The AGCO will continue to ensure that these, like all charitable gaming and licensed lottery events, are conducted safely, securely and with integrity.
QUICK FACTS
- In 2017/18, the provincial fee on the sale of break open tickets cost charities approximately $4.7 million.
- Break open tickets are made of paper or cardboard and have tabs that can be torn open to reveal a series of symbols. The winning combination of symbols can be found at the back of the ticket.
- To qualify for a licence to sell tickets, select winners and distribute prizes, charities need to demonstrate to the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario that they provide a charitable benefit to residents of Ontario.