Good Afternoon,

My question relates to social behavioral researchers who wish to include
a drawing for a prize as an inducement for participation in their
studies.  How you handle this in the light of the "no games of chance"
law in Pennsylvania?  At Lehigh, we conduct social/behavioral research
and our researchers often propose to enter participants in a drawing as
a "thank you" for their participation.  The prize is usually gift card,
rarely cash.  Last year a casino came to Bethlehem so the university is
adding more information in the student materials regarding the evils of
gambling.  Then, legal counsel realized that researchers were
occasionally offering a drawing and said the university should be
consistent on not allowing "games of chance".  However, they said they
can be swayed if I can find out that other PA schools allow drawings.
So I need your help!

At your institution, do you allow researchers to use drawings as
incentives?  If so, what is your interpretation of the law and the
rationale for allowing drawings?

Your responses will be greatly appreciated!

Thank you,
Ruth Tallman

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