After a three-month introductory program, the Big Money Bingo game is being restructured to address concerns voiced by the state's non-profit community.  Beginning July 16, the following changes for Big Money Bingo, which is regulated by the Lottery's Charitable Gaming Division, will be in effect:

• The minimum starting jackpot for Big Money Bingo will increase from $5,000 to $10,000.
   
• Charities will be able to run two progressive bingo games per session.  This relieves charities from having to choose between Big Money Bingo and their own in-house progressive game and provides players greater variety.  It should be noted, however, that if a charity elects to run two progressive games, one must be Big Money Bingo.
   
• The commission that charities receive from Big Money Bingo will increase from 36.5 percent to 46.5 percent.  The new rate compares favorably with that of traditional bingo games and will provide charities with more funding for their worthwhile causes.

The Charitable Gaming Division expects the changes will encourage more halls and charities to participate in Big Money Bingo, which will result in bigger jackpots and increased popularity of the game.