The Nebraska Lottery hit a major milestone recently.
On Tuesday, it announced that it surpassed $1 billion in total proceeds back to the state.
Starting in 1993, the Nebraska Lottery has now transferred $1,002,980,662 to environmental and educational programs for the state.
Though it is not one of the states with online lotteries, Nebraska features two couriers that supply online sales of retail games.
Those sales contribute to the transfers back to the state of Nebraska.
Where has the $1 billion in funds gone in Nebraska?
The Nebraska Lottery has been giving quarterly transfers to the state since it began in September 1993.
Its most recent transfer of $11.4 million made on Sept. 30 officially brought the state beyond the $1 billion mark.
Lottery Director Brian Rockey commented on the milestone in a press release:
“When you buy a Nebraska Lottery ticket, you’re supporting good causes all across our state. Around 25 cents of every dollar spent on lottery products goes to support the environment, education, the Nebraska State Fair, and problem gamblers assistance. We are extremely proud of our record of making a difference in Nebraska along with our players and retailers. Together we’re Building a Better Nebraska.”
These funds support all 93 counties in Nebraska. Here’s how the money has been distributed since 1993:
- Nebraska Environmental Trust: $430.7 million
- Nebraska Education: $449.2 million
- Nebraska State Fair: $77.3 million
- Problem Gamblers Assistance: $22.4 million
On top of that, the Solid Waste Landfill Closure Assistance Fund received $18.5 million until 1997. A one-time transfer of $5 million was also made to the State General Fund in 2004.
Criteria for proceeds distribution are established by the beneficiary funds in accordance with legislative mandates.
Couriers available to boost Nebraska Lottery sales
Fiscal year 2024 sales data has not been provided yet by the Nebraska Lottery.
However, in FY23, the state received a record in funds from the lottery. That year saw $55.8 million transferred back, thanks to $220.1 million in total lottery sales.
FY24 will be an interesting look into Nebraska, as the state has added couriers Jackpocket and Lotto.com.
These companies are third-party options for lottery players. They make online sales of retail lottery games in the state.
Lotto.com sells select Nebraska scratch tickets to customers. Nebraska is just one of seven locations that can offer scratch tickets through a courier.
The online provider currently advertises the sale of Supreme Gold ($30), Ultra Violet ($10), and Win $50, $100, or $500 ($20). That is in addition to draw games such as Mega Millions, Powerball, Pick 3, and Lucky for Life.
Photo by Mehaniq via Shutterstock
Graphic from the Nebraska Lottery
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