The Texas Lottery Commission (TLC) is on the brink of dissolution following the passage of Senate Bill 3070, which now awaits Governor Greg Abbott's signature. The bill proposes transferring the oversight of lottery operations to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) and implementing significant reforms in response to recent controversies.
SB 3070, introduced by Senator Bob Hall, aims to address integrity concerns within the state's lottery system. Key provisions include:
- Dissolving the TLC by September 1, 2025, with responsibilities shifting to the TDLR.
- Banning online lottery ticket sales, including through courier services.
- Limiting lottery ticket purchases to 100 tickets per transaction.
- Establishing a Lottery Advisory Committee to provide external recommendations.
- Mandating a sunset review before August 31, 2027, to determine the lottery's future.
The legislative push follows two high-profile jackpot controversies:
- In April 2023, a syndicate purchased nearly all possible number combinations, securing a $95 million jackpot.
- In February 2025, a woman won an $83.5 million jackpot through the Jackpocket app, raising questions about the legality of courier services.
These incidents prompted investigations by the Texas Rangers and Attorney General Ken Paxton, leading to the resignation of TLC Executive Director Ryan Mindell in April 2025.
Governor Abbott emphasized the need for trust in the state's lottery system, stating, "Texans must be able to trust in our state's lottery system and know that the lottery is conducted with integrity and lawfully."
As the bill awaits the governor's decision, the future of the Texas Lottery hangs in the balance, with potential implications for state-funded programs and the broader gambling landscape in Texas.
