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2mo ago

Texas Investigates Lottery Wins and Bans Online Ticket Courier Services

Two major jackpots and unregulated third-party ticket services prompt scrutiny and regulatory changes in Texas.

AUSTIN, TEXAS - OCTOBER 10: In a photo illustration, Powerball lottery tickets are seen on a countertop on October 10, 2023 in Austin, Texas. The Powerball jackpot has grown to over $1.7 billion, making it the second-largest jackpot in history. (Photo Illustration by Brandon Bell/Getty Images)
In this photo illustration, a lottery ticket is shown on a Chevron gas station countertop on July 28, 2022 in Houston, Texas.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott at the White House on February 5.
Fabiola Munoz (left) sells another Powerball ticket from the window at the Bonjour Food Store on Yale Street, Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2016, in Houston.

Overview

  • Governor Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Rangers to investigate two lottery jackpots, including an $83.5 million win this month and a $95 million win in 2023, both involving online courier services.
  • The Texas Lottery Commission has banned lottery courier services, citing concerns over fairness, integrity, and the lack of regulation for such services in the state.
  • Jackpocket and other courier companies, which have operated legally in Texas since 2019, have suspended their services following the ban and are seeking clearer regulatory frameworks.
  • The winning ticket for the recent $83.5 million jackpot was purchased through Jackpocket at an Austin retailer, while the 2023 jackpot involved bulk ticket purchases covering nearly all possible combinations.
  • Texas Lottery Commissioner Clark Smith resigned last week, and a commission meeting on March 4 will address new rules and policies for lottery operations.