Grand Canyon Times

Majority Leader Sonny Borrelli has raised concerns about actions taken by state agencies against veterans groups and nonprofits in Arizona. The issue revolves around the use of Bingo Technological Aids (BTAs), which have been legal in the state since 2017. These devices are used as substitutes for bingo cards, accommodating individuals with disabilities and ensuring compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

In September, several Arizona departments, including Revenue, Liquor Licenses and Control, and Gaming, threatened to criminally prosecute and revoke liquor licenses of organizations such as Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion, and fraternal groups like the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Elks, and Moose Lodges over their use of BTAs.

Senator Borrelli has called on these state agencies to cease their actions against these groups. He also requested all communications related to BTAs through an Arizona Public Records Request to gain further insight into the situation. "I have a hunch this tyrannic harassment from these state agencies is due to the influence of the tribal gaming industry, who wants monopoly over all gaming," said Senator Borrelli. "I'm fearful that these departments are sacrificing Arizona's veterans in order to appease these interests. It's not lawful or ethical, and I plan to get to the bottom of this issue for our veterans and nonprofits that do so much good for our state."

For more information, contact Kim Quintero, Director of Communications at the Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus at kquintero@azleg.gov.