The Texas Lottery Commission’s executive director announced a ban on couriers from buying lottery tickets, citing state laws that prohibit the practice. This decision comes after years of the commission claiming it had no control over third-party sales. The agency now views courier services as illegal and plans to revoke the lottery license of any stores selling tickets to couriers.
The move follows the resignation of a lottery commissioner and public calls from lawmakers, including Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, to prohibit couriers. Gov. Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Rangers to investigate recent jackpot wins involving courier purchases. Couriers bypass the state law requiring tickets to be bought in person by having customers pay them to purchase and send pictures of the tickets, creating a remote play option.
The commission outlined several state laws that couriers circumvent and has requested an opinion from the Attorney General’s office on their authority over couriers. The agency plans to adopt official rules banning the use of couriers by April. Lawmakers have introduced bills to ban couriers or establish a licensing system, with the Coalition of Texas Lottery Couriers expressing a willingness to work with legislators to find a responsible solution.
Despite criticism, the commission stands by its decision to ban couriers and improve the integrity of Texas Lottery games. The move has sparked debate among lawmakers, with some questioning why regulatory actions were not taken sooner. The Senate is considering a bill to ban couriers, while a House bill proposes a licensing system for couriers. The public’s trust and confidence in the Texas Lottery and courier operations is paramount, according to the coalition representing major couriers.
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