Is Bismarck About to do Away with Bingo Jackpot Restrictions?

FUN FACT: In the City of Bismarck, the most that can be won in a game of Bingo is $5,000.

Did you know that a person can't win more than $5,000 in a game of Bingo in Bismarck? But the Bismarck City Commission is about to vote on possibly removing the limit. According to KFYR-TV,  if the vote is in favor of removing the prize limit, "charitable gaming organizations can operate with fewer restrictions. It also falls in line with the regulations of other parts of the state."

Bismarck's mayor supports removing the $5,000 prize limit.

I spoke with Mayor Steve Bakken about his thoughts on a possible change to the current Bingo prize limit ordinance. He is in favor of removing the limits. Why? Because the money made goes to good causes. Mayor Bakken said, "Any opportunity for charities to generate revenue with larger jackpots is a benefit for the entities that rely on that revenue source." He also mentioned that there are a lot of great charities in our community and "anything that helps them perform their mission is a good thing."

What is the point of a prize limit?

I tend to agree with the mayor on his thoughts. With charitable gaming, why would there even be a restriction on the amount that can be won? Why would there be an ordinance that limits the opportunity to bring in more money for a cause?