Online Gambling in the United States
There is a wide range of lottery games available for players in the United States. Some states, such as Connecticut and Kentucky, offer a variety of local games while other states, such as Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and New Jersey, operate state-wide lottery services. While most US states have a number of different lottery offerings, only a few have legalized online lotteries.
In Pennsylvania, the state lottery started operating in 2018. In the early years of the PA lottery, the state’s revenues remained modest. However, as the lottery has grown, so have its sales. By the end of 2017, the lottery reported revenues of $4 billion. Among the most popular lottery offerings are the Mega Millions and Powerball, which both have odds of winning of 1 in 292,201,338. Although the jackpots are relatively small, the prizes are still substantial.
New Hampshire is another state that offers several draw games and e-Instant games. New Hampshire’s lottery began operations in 1964. Currently, the lottery is working toward a goal of becoming an online lottery. This will allow the lottery to expand its service offering.
Another state that is in the process of legalizing an online lottery is Rhode Island. Several Northeastern states are seeking to legalize this form of gaming. Since launching its lottery website, PA iLottery has seen significant growth.
Nevada, however, does not have a state-wide lottery. Instead, residents of Nevada regularly cross the border to purchase tickets in neighboring states. Many believe that this is a benefit to the state. Casinos have strongly opposed state-run lottery, and it is possible that this is one of the reasons that the bill to legalize a public lottery failed in the Nevada Assembly. Despite this, many Nevadans think that a state-run lottery is a good idea.
New Jersey is also in the process of legalizing an online lottery. The New Jersey Lottery was established in 1970 and has been awarding over $42 billion in prize money to date. Profits from the lottery go to the state’s general fund and pension funds, as well as education and other non-profit organizations.
While there are a handful of states that are currently offering an online lottery, only six states have legalized it. A state-wide lottery is likely to be legalized in the near future, as more states look to increase their gambling revenues.
Other state-run lottery offerings include Colorado, Delaware, Iowa, New Jersey, and Washington D.C. Each offers a selection of multi-state draw games. Most of the proceeds from these lotteries go to public education, parks, wildlife habitats, and open space conservation.
Several other US states, including Alabama and Hawaii, do not have a state-wide lottery. In addition to the lottery, these states offer keno and scratch-offs. Unlike the multi-state lottery, these lotteries are not played at casinos.
For those who want to play on the Internet, the best sites are those that offer a secure online purchasing process. Using these sites, you can view current jackpots, compare odds, and buy tickets. Moreover, you can access the site on Android and iOS devices.