Texas Senate Bill SB1108

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the closure of certain instant lottery games.

Impact

The passing of SB1108 could significantly influence the management of instant lottery games in Texas. By legally requiring the sale of 85 percent of tickets before a game's closure, the bill would alter the operational protocols of the Texas Lottery Commission. This change could lead to a longer duration for certain games, potentially increasing revenue for the state lottery by maximizing ticket sales and extending gameplay. In addition, the bill could instill greater confidence among players, knowing they have more opportunities to win before a game is discontinued.

Summary

SB1108 addresses the regulation of instant lottery games in Texas. The bill mandates that the lottery commission cannot initiate procedures to close an instant lottery game until at least 85 percent of all tickets for that game have been sold. This legislation aims to protect the interests of players and ensure that they have ample opportunity to participate in games before any closure is permitted. The bill reflects an effort to enhance transparency and fairness in the lottery system, offering more guarantees to participants regarding the availability of games.

Contention

While the intent of the bill may be to promote fairness in the lottery system, it could face criticism from various stakeholders. Some may argue that the 85 percent threshold could hinder the commission's ability to manage games effectively, especially if specific games are underperforming. This requirement could lead to situations where public interest or potential revenue is outweighed by operational inefficiencies, causing contention among policymakers about the balance between player protection and effective game management. As such, discussions surrounding the bill may revolve around its implications for lottery economics and regulatory control.