"An Act establishing a state lottery."

Lotteries have a long history in the world. The Bible contains a reference to a lottery used by Moses to award land west of the River Jordan. Throughout history and throughout the world, lotteries have been used to raise money for various purposes. In North America every Canadian province, 40 U.S. states, the district of Columbia, Mexico, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands all offer government-operated lotteries. During fiscal year 2002, U.S. lottery sales totaled $42.9 billion. Funds raised from these lotteries have been used to fund education, economic development, natural resources, public health, corrections, transportation and a variety of other projects.

HB 240 would allow Alaska to institute a state lottery for the purpose of generating revenue for the state. Under HB 240 a Commission appointed by the governor would be established in the Department of Revenue tasked with determining policy for and conducting the operation. The Commission would also be required to provide a yearly report to the governor and the legislature with a statement of lottery revenue, prize disbursement, and other expenses.

Considering the fiscal issues facing Alaska, lottery generated revenue could help provide a new source of income for the general fund.

Last Updated: 04/07/2003

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