North America
Massachusetts Lottery Could Soon Be Accessible via Online Platforms
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has voiced her endorsement for the possibility of bringing the state lottery online, aligning with the efforts made by the House to explore this option. With the aim of increasing lottery sales and generating additional revenue for the state, the governor is resolute in exploring the introduction of online lottery products in Massachusetts.
Governor and House Back Expansion Efforts in Massachusetts Lottery
With support from both the House and the governor, the fate of regulating online lotteries in Massachusetts now rests with the Senate, following the recent expansion of sports gambling in the state.
Governor Healey has been vocal about her reasons for pushing for online lottery expansion, citing the need for a digital platform to offer a variety of games backed by the state, with the state benefiting from the revenue generated. She recognizes the competitive nature of the gambling market, with in-person and online sports betting and mobile apps gaining popularity.
In a recent interview, the governor highlighted the presence of casinos and companies like DraftKings in the state, emphasizing that the current form of the lottery struggles to compete. Healey criticized inaction, stating that private companies would pocket the money generated, whereas expanding the lottery would have a positive impact on communities.
Massachusetts Anticipates Significant Revenue Boost from Online Lottery Expansion
Officials and politicians in Massachusetts are projecting a substantial revenue boost of $200 million from the implementation of an online lottery system, which could be used to support early education and childcare stabilization grants.
Despite previous opposition from the Senate due to concerns about problem gambling, there appears to be growing support for the iLottery bill, with the governor sending a strong message to the Senate. While previous attempts to pass such a bill have been unsuccessful in the past, the current momentum may finally pave the way for an online lottery to become a reality in Massachusetts.