Prohibits internet sale of lottery tickets by State Lottery Commission.
Impact
Should S2159 be enacted, it will reinforce existing statutes that limit the way lottery tickets can be sold within New Jersey. By restricting internet sales directly by the State Lottery Commission, the bill would maintain the traditional model of lottery ticket sales, potentially upholding local businesses and registered courier services that can still sell lottery tickets online under certain conditions. Through this, it seeks to minimize potential issues associated with online gambling and sales directly managed by the government.
Summary
Senate Bill S2159 aims to prohibit the State Lottery Commission from selling lottery tickets via the internet. Sponsored by Senator Joseph P. Cryan, the bill seeks to amend Title 5 of the Revised Statutes by expressly forbidding online sales by the State Lottery Commission and its affiliated entities, including those contracted to handle sales. This legislation follows a proposal published on September 19, 2022, which intended to allow internet sales, scheduled to commence in the fall of 2024. The bill effectively reverses the Commission's direction by preventing direct digital sales of lottery tickets to consumers.
Contention
The bill addresses the growing concerns regarding the expansion of online sales and the lottery's involvement in digital commerce. Supporters may advocate for the preservation of physical ticket sales as a means of supporting community engagement and consumer protection, while opponents may argue that restricting online sales could inhibit convenience and accessibility for consumers who prefer digital transactions. By not impacting the sales capabilities of licensed courier services, the bill attempts to balance traditional sales methods with modern consumer expectations.
Allows courier services to sell instant lottery game tickets electronically; requires contribution from Lottery Enterprise to certain State retirement systems.
Directs State Lottery Commission to permit lottery player to submit and validate lottery claims of $600 or more via Internet, mobile application, or other electronic means.
Directs State Lottery Commission to permit lottery player to submit and validate lottery claims of $600 or more via Internet, mobile application, or other electronic means.