By Angelica Acevedo
A bill that will allow senior citizen centers to play bingo twice a week each year for free was passed unanimously on Wednesday, June 7.
The bill, sponsored by state Sen. Toby Ann Stavisky (D-Flushing), was brought to her attention after a director of a senior center in her district spoke up about the issue. Previously, retirement communities and social or charitable organizations were only able to play up to 15 times per year.
According to the Stavisky bill, bingo is considered to help seniors increase their physical and mental activity. Furthermore, a “free” bingo game prize in these centers will not exceed $10 dollars.
“Too many of our seniors, going to a senior center helps break down walls of isolation, by encouraging interaction with their peers and giving them a reason to get dressed and leave their home,” State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky said. “I see no reason why a senior center or retirement community should be limited to hosting bingo games 15 times year and I am proud to sponsor this bill.”
