Connecticut § 53-278b - Gambling; professional gambling; penalties.
Full text of Connecticut Connecticut General Statutes § 53-278b — Gambling; professional gambling; penalties., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 53-278b. Gambling; professional gambling; penalties.
Sec. 53-278b. Gambling; professional gambling; penalties. (a) Any person who engages in gambling, or solicits or induces another to engage in gambling, or is present when another person or persons are engaged in gambling, shall be guilty of a class B misdemeanor; provided natural persons shall be exempt from prosecution and punishment under this subsection for any game, wager or transaction which is incidental to a bona fide social relationship, is participated in by natural persons only and in which no person is participating, directly or indirectly, in professional gambling.
(b) Any person who engages in professional gambling shall be guilty of a class A misdemeanor.
(P.A. 73-455, S. 2.)
Cited. 3 CA 477; 5 CA 634; 8 CA 290; 17 CA 587; 35 CA 333.
Pyramid merchandising schemes possess the 3 essential elements of a lottery, consideration, chance and prize, and thus violate the lottery statute. 32 CS 279.
Source: official Connecticut text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Connecticut § 53-278b
What does Connecticut General Statutes § 53-278b cover?
Section 53-278b ("Gambling; professional gambling; penalties.") is part of the Connecticut General Statutes, the codified statutory law of Connecticut. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Connecticut § 53-278b?
A common citation format is "Connecticut General Statutes § 53-278b" (Connecticut). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Connecticut law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Connecticut official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Connecticut attorney.
How does Connecticut § 53-278b apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Connecticut can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Connecticut.