June 2020 – In response to requests from the charitable gaming sector, the AGCO has increased flexibility for Bingo Revenue Model licensees wanting to run a media bingo while facilities are closed to the public due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Once approved, Hall Charity Associations together with bingo hall operators can proceed with a media bingo game under their Bingo Revenue Model lottery licence.
As permitted in a media bingo licence, approved licence holders can communicate bingo numbers through media such as radio, newspaper or television. During COVID-19 closures, the AGCO may also approve media bingos where bingo numbers are called through a streaming service on a temporary basis. This can be done once proposals are approved for Bingo Revenue Model licence holders.
Approved licences allow bingo cards and prizes to be distributed through curbside pick-up or as part of an on-site game where customers remain in their parked vehicles and tune into a radio broadcast of the game. Customer age and identity verification will be required.
Games will continue to be conducted inside the bingo hall but no customers will enter the facility. Games will be delivered by staff with existing approved equipment and follow established charitable gaming procedures. The AGCO remains committed to protecting public safety and all components of the game must follow public health guidelines including physical distancing and the use of personal protective equipment.
AGCO will temporarily permit flexibility on the number of bona fide member volunteers required to be present at Bingo Revenue Model halls by reducing the minimum number down from three to one.
Interested Bingo Revenue Model licensees can request an amendment to their existing licence to include a media bingo as a permitted game while halls are closed to the public due to COVID-19. Note this opportunity applies to bingo games only and not to all games conducted at a bingo hall.
This is a temporary measure to support the charitable gaming sector during the COVID-19 pandemic. The AGCO will continue to consult with stakeholders and evaluate approaches for the future.
To discuss proposals to modify a Bingo Revenue Model licence to run media bingo and other matters related to charitable gaming, contact the AGCO’s Eligibility Officers at lotterylicensing@agco.ca.
For questions or more information, contact the AGCO’s Customer Service at 1-800-522-2876, Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For general information on charitable gaming and COVID-19 updates, visit Charitable Lottery Licensing Overview and the AGCO’s COVID-19 announcements. You can also follow @Ont_AGCO on Twitter for the latest news.