URGENT UPDATE: Colorado Lottery’s ambitious plan to launch online ticket sales by 2027 is facing a significant setback as a bipartisan group of legislators has filed a bill to block the initiative. This development comes amidst growing concerns over potential addiction risks and the implications for legalized internet gambling.
The proposed legislation, known as SB26-117, aims to prohibit online lottery ticket sales, a move that critics say could prevent an increase in gambling-related issues in the state. Legislators, including Democratic Senator Jeff Bridges, argue that allowing online sales could lead to a slippery slope toward online casino-style games, an expansion that many in Colorado do not support. “The state should not be participating in that,” Bridges stated, highlighting fears that online lottery tickets resemble gaming machines that can encourage addictive behavior.
Despite these concerns, Colorado Lottery officials assert that online sales are essential to boost revenue for vital outdoor programs, including funding for parks and wildlife initiatives. Lottery director Tom Seaver emphasized the need for growth, stating, “We can’t sit still and meet our numbers. We have to keep growing to meet the needs of our recipients.” The lottery’s funding model, which allocates profits to Great Outdoors Colorado, relies on increasing sales to support its mission.
Governor Jared Polis has expressed support for expanding lottery operations, advocating for increased consumer convenience and internet freedom. In a statement, Polis’s spokesman Eric Maruyama noted that the proposed online ticket sales would help Coloradans engage with initiatives that support outdoor recreation.
However, the bill’s sponsors argue that promoting online lottery sales could exacerbate gambling addiction, an issue that has reportedly worsened since Colorado legalized sports betting in 2020. The Problem Gambling Coalition of Colorado has voiced strong opposition to the online ticket sales plan, warning that quick and easy access to gambling via smartphones can lead to increased addiction risks.
As the debate intensifies, the Colorado Lottery’s plans for online sales are still in the developmental stage. Officials are contemplating how to implement various games, including Lotto, Powerball, and Mega Millions, for digital purchase. Seaver acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the rollout, stating, “We are a long way from saying what kind of game we would bring.”
The urgency of this situation is amplified by the fact that Colorado residents can already purchase lottery tickets online through third-party couriers, which operate without direct regulation from the Colorado Lottery. As the state navigates this complex landscape, the future of online lottery sales remains uncertain.
With the legislative session underway, all eyes are on how lawmakers will address these concerns and the potential impact on Colorado’s lottery revenue. The situation is rapidly developing, and stakeholders are awaiting further updates.
For those who may be struggling with gambling addiction, resources are available through the Problem Gambling Coalition of Colorado at 303-955-4682 or via their website at cogamblerhelp.org.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.
