Raffles legal in Oklahoma -- under strict conditions Published Feb. 13, 2013 By 2nd Lt. Alexis Ayala 71st Flying Training Wing Legal Office VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Raffling and games of chance are very popular during social events on or off base. Although gambling may be legal elsewhere in the military, it is generally prohibited in Oklahoma. Under Air Force rules, each installation follows the gambling rules in effect for the state where the base is located. While most forms of gambling are illegal in Oklahoma, raffles are permitted under strict conditions. Other types of gambling and card games are not allowed. A raffle in Oklahoma must be conducted by a qualified organization. It must be conducted by those members associated with the organization and no member can receive compensation. If your private organization conducts a raffle, no member of your group can keep any of the proceeds as compensation in any way. Another rule is that raffles may only be conducted by formal private organizations. Thus, an undergraduate pilot training squadron or class, not affiliated with a private organization, cannot informally conduct a holiday party with games and raffles. According to Air Force Instruction 34-223, "Private Organizations Program," unofficial activities are not allowed to conduct games of chance, lotteries, raffles or other gambling-type activities in any way. Only recognized private organizations may hold raffles as long as they otherwise follow the rules. If a private organization wants to hold a fundraiser or raffle, it must submit its request to Jeffrey Patton with the 71st Force Support Squadron. Fund-raising raffles can be conducted by private organizations on the military instillation on separate occasions and on an infrequent basis and must be approved by the installation commander. When putting in for an approval on fund-raising raffles keep in mind that you will need to provide information regarding what the funds will be used for, who the intended beneficiaries will be and how the private organization will ensure the proceeds are used properly. Another thing to keep in mind is the location of the activity and time frame. Raffles cannot be conducted in the workplace or during duty hours. They must not be conducted while in uniform at any time. An example of an acceptable location would be the lobby of the Base Exchange or the Vance Collocated Club. If you are unclear as to what is an acceptable activity to conduct for any event, contact the Legal Office, 213-7404. Don't forget to get official approval before conducting your raffle or game of chance.