COLUMBUS, Ohio - Multiple local fire officials testified in Columbus on Tuesday in support of legislation that would allow first responders and other entities to hold online raffles.

Calcutta Volunteer Fire Department Chief David McCoy, Calcutta Lieutenant Randy Schneider and Western Reserve Fire District Chief Chip Comstock, among others, testified in favor of House Bill 476.

House Bill 476, introduced by State Representatives David Thomas and Meredith Craig, and co-sponsored by State Representative Monica Robb-Blasdel would allow Ohio first responders, schools and non-profits to hold online raffles.

According to a news release from Representative Thomas, several non-profits, including police and fire departments across Ohio have long relied on online raffles as a fundraising method.

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