Texas Lottery Moves to Ban Courier Services for Lottery Tickets

AUSTIN, TX – The Texas Lottery Commission announced that it is banning the use of lottery ticket courier services throughout the state.

On February 24, Executive Director Ryan Mindell released a policy statement stating that these services are now outlawed under Texas law. The commission plans to propose rule changes to stop these services officially. A formal discussion will take place at the Commission’s meeting on March 4, with the new rules expected to be adopted in April.

These services are used by courier companies that sell lottery tickets online. After the customer pays for the order, the courier purchases the tickets from authorized retailers and then sends a digital copy to the customer. The courier keeps the physical ticket until the customer finds out whether they have won. These services are not free and are currently unregulated, which has implications regarding the randomness and security of the lottery draw.

Mindell explained that the Texas Lottery was designed to ensure ticket sales are secure and that funds raised benefit public education and veterans' services. However, the growth of unregulated courier services has raised fears about possible criminal activity and violations of state laws.

The proposed changes would also penalize any retailer who continues to use a courier service by removing their license. Mindell stressed that the purpose is to guarantee that all ticket sales are made in accordance with state laws and to uphold the credibility of the system.

The move to ban courier services comes after recent concerns from lawmakers and the public. Several bills have been introduced in the Texas Legislature to end these services. The issue gained more attention after a major Lotto Texas jackpot win involving a courier service led to investigations by the Texas Lottery.

Chairman Robert G. Rivera said, "Our priority is to protect the security and integrity of the Texas Lottery."

The Texas Lottery Commission stated it is taking action to make sure all ticket sales are legal and fair while continuing to support important state programs like education and veterans’ services.