1/27/2010 - 11:19 AM

Lottery's 2010 Fiscal Year Trending to be Another Winner for Louisiana

The Louisiana Lottery Corporation recorded a whopping $64.6 million in transfers to the state treasury for the first half of the 2010 fiscal year, its best start in 16 years.

Second quarter Lottery revenue reached $88,962,599, bringing total fiscal year revenue to $184,628,544, and resulting in a second quarter transfer of $31,136,910. By law, the Lottery contributes 35 percent of its revenue to the state, with proceeds earmarked for public education. No other lottery jurisdiction in the U.S. contributes a greater percentage of revenue to its government.

Retailers earn five percent sales commission on Lottery tickets, which amounted to $4,631,355 for October to December of 2009, bringing fiscal year-to-date Lottery retailer commission payments to $9,547,583.

Lottery President Rose Hudson credits much of the Lottery's success over the last six months to steady jackpots, as well as value-added promotions. 

"Sales for all three of our jackpot games - Powerball, Lotto and Easy 5 - are up compared to the first half of last fiscal year, mirrored by strong jackpot performance," she explained. "Players enjoy the possibility of winning large, life-changing top prizes while still having the chance to win smaller prizes for matching fewer numbers. Over the last six months, 14 Powerball drawings have featured jackpots in excess of $100 million."

In December, the Lottery sold out of its $5 scratch-off New Orleans Saints, featuring the NFL Divisional Champion's marks and logos. It outperformed any $5 game the Lottery has issued to date. The game offered a series of second-chance drawings for players to win tickets to Saints games, autographed merchandise and related prizes. Although the game is closed, nonwinning tickets can still be entered until April 13 into the final drawing.

Also in the second quarter of its fiscal year, the Lottery entered into a sponsorship agreement with the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club to produce its first Mardi Gras scratch-off featuring a specific krewe. As part of the partnership, the Lottery is giving away a Zulu parade ride through its Web site.

"In fulfilling our mission of maximizing revenue for the state while upholding the highest level of public trust, the Lottery has enjoyed successful, win-win relationships with other Louisiana brands that ultimately add value for our players," said Hudson.

Hudson noted that Lottery ticket purchasers must be at least 21 years of age and encouraged anyone with a gambling problem, or friends of anyone with a gambling problem, to call toll-free 1-877-770-7867 for assistance. For security purposes, the Lottery strongly encourages players to sign the back of their ticket after purchasing.