Wyoming to Remain Without a State Lotto

Wyoming to Remain Without a State Lotto

Wyoming, one of the few states left without a state lottery will remain without one after legislators voted 35-25 in the state house of representatives. Lotto supporters said the Wyoming lottery would have provided the state with $11 million dollars for the Hathaway Scholarship program which helps students who are enrolled at the University of Wyoming and other community colleges. It was a setback for a state known for its freedom loving citizens.

There were the usual objections from the usual groups and individuals. Rep. Rodney "Pete" Anderson, a Baptist offered passionate opposition to the lotto bill and quoted scripture. A representative of the Mormon Church stated the church's opposition to the lotto bill in earlier testimony to the legislature last summer. There was also the tired old argument about 'addiction' from several legislators. Rep. Allen Jaggi, R-Lyman stated, "I fail to see why government should be encouraging and facilitating gambling in the state of Wyoming."

In a move to protect their industry representatives of Wyoming Downs and Wyoming Off-Track Betting influenced lawmakers with estimates of the potential damage to their industry. Although statewide polls showed overwhelming support for the state lottery legislators were swayed by special interest groups. "It's just stupidity," said Rep. David Edwards, R-Douglas.

One legislator changed his vote because of perceived damage to casinos owned by the Arapaho tribe in his district. Once again special interest groups and tired old arguments against state lottos won the day and Wyoming will remain without a state lotto---for now.

Despite the naysayers in Wyoming most states with lotteries have funded a variety of state services. Most states use lottery revenue for education and collect millions each year for special educational programs and college scholarships. When most of these states first introduced the idea of a state lottery they were met with objections from the usual suspects, religious fanatics, moralizers of all stripes and entrenched gambling interests. Chances are in years to come that Wyoming will have a state lottery of its own.

In an attempt to boost sales and attract new players several states have added new games and in 2010 most states with lotteries will allow cross sales of tickets for Powerball and Mega Millions. In addition many states are considering the sale of online lottery tickets. Illinois is presently considering such a move and the idea has been well received among lottery players. Players will be able to log on to a state sponsored lottery website and make an online lottery purchase. The idea of online lottery ticket sales has already been implemented by most European lotteries with great success.

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