Charity poker nights draw increased scrutiny

Charity poker itself is perfectly legal, but Illinois law prohibits consultants from running charitable games and providing dealers — duties expressly limited to the charity. Money is to be handled only at the bank, not at the tables. Dealers may not be paid or tipped, and side bets are forbidden.

The law aims to draw a firm line between charities and hired gambling consultants, who are limited to providing advice on setting up the games and equipment..