State Sen. Lisa M. Boscola, D-Bethlehem, said she and some of her colleagues had requested the delay to update what she described as an "antiquated law with onerous reporting requirements."

She said more time was needed for lawmakers to make changes to Act 2 of 2012.

"As the law currently stands, it is confusing, burdensome, makes commonly acceptable fundraising practices illegal and hampers a community organization's ability to attract volunteers and raise funds," Boscola said. "Our volunteer fire departments, veterans' clubs, social and civic organizations deserve better."

She said many organizations were unprepared to comply with the Feb. 1 reporting deadline.

Boscola said members of the legislature are already preparing bills that would make improvements to the law.

For example, one measure would allow volunteer groups to sell raffle tickets across county lines – a practice that is technically illegal, but commonly done. Another proposal would allow non-members to help an organization to sell raffle tickets. Yet another proposal would minimize reporting requirements, especially for smaller charitable organizations.

"Our local volunteer groups do so much good in our communities," Boscola said. "Our laws governing small games of chance should be reasonable, rational and encourage participation and membership in these organizations."