Lottery First Quarter Transfers Dip From Record Year

For the first quarter of fiscal year 2015, the Louisiana Lottery Corporation transferred $36.5 million to the state’s coffers, down 10 percent from 2014.

“Even though our scratch-off sales were up about 9 percent this quarter, Powerball sales suffered compared to 2013 where we experienced back-to-back jackpots over $400 million,” explained Lottery President/CEO Rose Hudson. “Certainly the additional population of California and Florida has had an impact on jackpot growth, but the timing of large jackpots that drive sales is not predictable. The good news is that Powerball will undergo sweeping changes next year that will make this player favorite even more exciting on multiple levels.”

With first-quarter revenue of $104,462,565, the Lottery contributed $36,561,900 to the state treasury. By law, at least 35 percent of Lottery proceeds are transferred to the state treasury and dedicated for K-12 public education. Roughly 53 percent of sales fund prizes and less than 6 percent is used to operate the Lottery.

Retailers earn 5.5 percent compensation, including commission, incentives for cashing winning tickets and bonuses for selling winning tickets, totaling more than $5.8 million for July through September of 2014. 

“Since 2006, the Lottery has experienced annual growth, going from $307 million in 2005 to $449 million in 2014. Our goal is to continue this trend in maximizing revenue for the state through player-centric game development and retailer inventory management,” Hudson added.

Lottery ticket purchasers must be at least 21 years of age. Anyone with a gambling problem, or friends of anyone with a gambling problem, is encouraged to call toll-free 1-877-770-7867 for assistance. For security purposes, players should sign the back of their tickets after purchasing.

More information on the Louisiana Lottery can be found on its website www.louisianalottery.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/louisianalottery or on Twitter at www.twitter.com/LALottery.