Lottery Kicks off Fiscal Year with a Bang, $33 Million Transferred to State
With first-quarter revenue of $95,665,945, the Lottery contributed to the state 35 percent in proceeds, which are earmarked for public education. Retailers earn five percent sales commission on Lottery tickets, which amounted to $4,916,228 for July through September of 2009.
Lottery President Rose Hudson credits much of the Lottery's success over the last three months to high Powerball jackpots as well as new, value-added promotions for its scratch-off games.
"Powerball and Lotto sales are strongly driven by jackpot size," she explained. "Louisiana Powerball sales are up over 20 percent compared to last year, with one jackpot reaching $250 million and the next rolling over $170 million during the first quarter."
In addition to strong sales for its draw-style games, scratch-off sales were also up slightly from the previous fiscal year.
In July, the Lottery partnered with its sports sponsorship and media vendors to provide weekly second-chance drawings for summer-themed prizes. Second-chance drawings give players who do not win a scratch-off prize, the opportunity to enter those tickets into drawings for other prizes.
In September, the Lottery launched the $5 scratch-off New Orleans Saints, featuring the team's marks and logos. That ticket also offers second-chance drawings for players to win tickets to Saints games, autographed merchandise and more.
"Our partnership with the New Orleans Saints has truly been a win-win experience, giving our players the chance to win once-in-a-lifetime prizes that mesh perfectly with our brand of fun and excitement," said Hudson. "Six-week sales for the game are double the average for our $5 product."
Under state law, the treasury department receives 35 percent of every $1 in Lottery sales. At least 50 percent of sales is used to fund Lottery prizes, and retailers receive at least 5 percent as commission on ticket sales. Less than 10 percent is retained by the Lottery for operating costs.
"In fulfilling our mission of maximizing revenue for the state while upholding the highest level of public trust, the Lottery has not wavered from its core philosophies that have made it successful," said Hudson. "We continue to responsibly offer our games as a fun entertainment option with added value."
Hudson noted that Lottery ticket purchasers must be at least 21 years of age and encouraged anyone with a gambling problem, or friends of anyone with a gambling problem, to call toll-free 1-877-770-7867 for assistance. For security purposes, the Lottery strongly encourages players to sign the back of their ticket after purchasing.