The National Association of State Lotteries (NASPL) recently reported sales figures for each state, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Overall, sales in these jurisdictions were up in 2003. However, nine states experienced sales declines. The largest was 6.8% in Delaware. Other states experienced increases, including West Virginia (27.5%), Puerto Rico (26.4%), and Missouri (21.1%).
Lottery operators
Lottery operators oversee the day-to-day functions of lotteries. These tasks can include verifying data in the system, writing reports, and operating communication tools. They also install, tear down, and maintain equipment. These operators also perform assurance activities. Assurance activities involve reviewing complaints from the public.
In Australia, the lottery operators are state government-owned companies. In addition to Tatts Group, other Australian state governments operate their own lotteries.
Lottery winners
Lottery winners can often be the victims of fraud. One Michigan man, Ken Proxmire, won a $1 million Michigan State Lottery jackpot in 1977. He received payments of $50,000 a year for 14 years, and spent it on a new car and house. He even opened a pool parlour, but his lavish spending led to bankruptcy.
Although winning the lottery is an exciting prospect, the reality is much more complicated. It may lead to public humiliation, and relatives, neighbors, and friends may want to solicit favors from you. In one case, a Power Ball winner went to Lottery headquarters to reveal his identity and ended up needing police protection.
Lottery advertising
Some states have passed laws banning lottery advertising. Other states have tried to regulate it but have been unsuccessful. A recent study from the Howard Center analyzed marketing plans, advertising campaigns, and annual reports from state lottery agencies. It found that advertisements targeted low-income neighborhoods and intentionally targeted minority groups. Some people believe the targeting of these groups is unfair and would like to see the lottery banned.
Lottery advertisements are designed to persuade people to gamble, and inform them of the odds of winning. Students will analyze the Mega Millions, state lotteries, and other lottery advertisements to see how they use visual strategies to entice consumers to buy lottery tickets.