The aim of a bill in Texas is to eradicate the availability of online lottery tickets for purchase.
Senator Bob Hall has authored Senate Bill 1820 with the objective of closing an existing loophole that allows the sale of lottery tickets via telephone or online platforms.
In 2020, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the Texas Lottery implemented changes to its regulations that allowed for the sale of lottery tickets through online platforms and telephone transactions. These adjustments were made without the need for legislative approval and opened up avenues for licensed lottery retailers such as Mido Lotto and Jackpocket to operate as lottery couriers.
Lottery bill gaining steam
SB 1820 sailed through the state Senate on April 12 with an impressive 29-2 vote. Following this, the bill underwent a reading in the House and is currently awaiting further steps in the Licensing and Administrative Procedures Committee.
After the bill’s introduction, Hall proposed that lottery sales in Texas should take place in person at a regulated retail location. Presently, Texas does not have the authority to regulate online lottery couriers. If Hall’s bill is approved, Texas would gain complete control and oversight over all lottery sales.
In an interview with WFAA, a representative from the Texas Lottery Commission emphasized that courier services have no connection or affiliation with the Texas Lottery.
In March, Jay Stewart, an Austin attorney representing Jackpocket, referred to online courier services as a “convenience.”
Just like Uber or DoorDash, I view Jackpocket as a convenient company. It offers individuals who cannot visit their local retailer the opportunity to lawfully engage in activities they have the right to participate in.
Texas sports franchises invest in lottery courier
In January, Jackpot.com, an online lottery ticket courier based in Texas, began its operations with a significant funding of $42 million. This generous financial support came from various professional sports franchises located within the state.
Jackpocket.com has established exclusive marketing partnerships with:
- Dallas Cowboys (NFL)
- Houston Rockets (NBA)
- San Antonio Spurs (NBA)
Akshay K. Khanna, the CEO and co-founder of Jackpot.com, expressed when the launch of the platform took place in Texas.
Every year, more than half of Americans buy lottery tickets, but only a fraction of these purchases are made through online platforms. This statistic also applies to Texas, which is the third-largest lottery market in the United States.
Texans, being a state renowned for embracing innovation, will surely welcome Jackpot.com’s contemporary approach to gaming.
