PASSING A JOKER IN THE CHARLESTON (Article 133)

Commentary: If someone is aiming for a pair hand or attempting a jokerless hand, they might be tempted to pass a joker, but the rules forbid it. Players are expected to follow this rule in good faith. If a joker is mistakenly passed, the receiving player should request a replacement with a symbol tile, and no penalty is applied for the mistake.

Question from a player:  Can I pass a joker in the Charleston?

Answer from the NMJL:  A joker may never be passed. If it is, it must be given back.

Source:  Mah Jongg Made Easy (2024 page 14, bullet 2)

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Other answers from the NMJL: 

“A joker may not be passed in the Charleston for any reason whatsoever.”

“…and you may not pass a joker in the Charleston.”

Sources for other answers: National Mah Jongg League (1973, 1974)