Massachusetts Senate Rejects Proposal for Online Lottery Ticket Sales

By voting against a budget amendment that would have allowed for the selling of lottery tickets online, the Massachusetts Senate unexpectedly handed a blow to the state’s lottery’s anticipated expansion. The ruling puts the concept on hold, at least temporarily, but supporters of online lottery sales are still optimistic that there will be possibilities in the future to revive the idea.

Rejection by the Senate

Last week, the Massachusetts Senate made its position known by rejecting the budget proposal that attempted to legalize the sale of lottery tickets online. The action put an end to the proposal’s development, just as it did for the 2022–23 seasons of the Boston Bruins and Celtics. Although the denial was a setback, proponents of online lottery sales can regroup and look into new opportunities to further their goals.

Temporary Setback, Possibility of Revival

Despite the Massachusetts Senate’s suspension of the online lottery proposal, there is still a chance that it will be reinstated. Indicating that the idea of allowing the Massachusetts Lottery to engage in online sales is not fully abandoned for the year 2023, a similar proposal had already been adopted by the Massachusetts House as a component of the budget bill.

Differences to be Resolved

As the budget measure moves forward, there may be differences between the versions that the House and the Senate ratify. Before sending a unified plan to Governor Maura Healey for her approval, the two chambers will need to work together and settle their differences. Notably, Governor Healey has expressed support for the sale of lottery tickets online and has incorporated anticipated revenue from these sales into her budget proposal.

Potential Course of Action

Although the Senate’s rejection may be problematic, online lottery ticket sales are still conceivable. Senator Paul Feeney may introduce a separate bill aimed at the legalization of internet sales even if the final budget bill does not include the casino expansion amendment. Such a law might acquire traction and proceed with the help of Governor Healey and the House.

Future Uncertainty

At this time, it is certain that the Senate budget plan will not include a clause legalizing online lotteries. But it’s still unclear whether this problem will be fixed and put into practice this year. The absence of debate surrounding the rejection means that all senators oppose it. However, the ultimate choice will be determined after discussions between the two houses and the governor, with the possibility of compromises.

The post Massachusetts Senate Rejects Proposal for Online Lottery Ticket Sales appeared first on iGaming.org.