RALEIGH, N.C.  – People buying raffle tickets to support charitable causes in North Carolina could win bigger jackpots in a bill heading to the governor’s desk.

The Senate gave final legislative approval Wednesday to a measure that would increase maximum prize amounts from $50,000 in cash or merchandise in a calendar year to $125,000.

It also makes clear tax-exempt organizations and associations can offer houses and real property as a prize valued up to $500,000.

First-term GOP Rep. Justin Burr of Stanly County is the bill sponsor. Burr has said the measure would help charities generate more funds when their services are needed most in a bad economy.

Gov. Beverly Perdue will be asked to sign the bill into law.