Update: I finally heard back from Autodesk with a solid confirmation that those states/provinces are INELIGIBLE for ALL Autodesk awards at the Regional or Championship level this year.
Quote:
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3. Eligibility This Contest is open to entrants 18 and over or over the age of majority in their jurisdiction or residence, whichever is older, in the United States and Canada, but excluding residents of Florida, New York, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, and the Province of Quebec. Entrants who are residents of a country, state, province or jurisdiction that (1) prohibits any aspect of this Contest or (2) prohibits unregistered contests or (3) requires the contest sponsor to post a bond, are ineligible. Autodesk expressly disclaims any responsibility or liability for any entrant who enters when it is illegal for them to do so.
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http://students.autodesk.com/ama/ori...odeskAward.pdf
While it may be fun and a great education to put these submissions together, don't stress about them or presume you have a shot at winning them at any level if you are from those states/provinces. Ultimately it shouldnt be about the awards, but I've seen some great work come out of those locations and really feel everyone should have equal opportunity.
However, the good thing is that the lady I spoke with at Autodesk said that they were going to re-evaluate these criteria for next year to see if there is some way those states can be included.
I asked her to send us the legal references that cause these restrictions so that we as FIRST teams can possibly push our state reps/govts for changes to these laws (especially in light of the recent STEM push). If you are from one of these states and submitted or planned to submit, please let me know, as I plan on compiling a list so we can keep in touch and see what we can do to get this changed. PM or email me if you want to join for change.