News Release

Lottery Sales Set Record in Fiscal Year 2009

AUGUST 20, 2009 — For the second consecutive year, Minnesota State Lottery ticket sales set a new record. Sales reached $481.2 million in fiscal year 2009 (July 1, 2008 – June 30, 2009), an increase of $19.7 million, or 4.3 percent, from 2008. Record scratch game sales led the increase, ending the fiscal year at $324.9 million, an increase of almost $27.0 million, or 9.1 percent. Sales of lotto games (such as Powerball®) totaled $156.3 million, down $7.2 million, or 4.4 percent, over the previous year due primarily to the lack of large Powerball jackpots.

“Minnesota is one of a handful of states that set a new sales record for the past year,” said Lottery Executive Director Clint Harris. “Our players reacted positively to the wide variety of scratch games and exciting second-chance drawings that were offered during the fiscal year.”

Prize payments to players were a record $295.1 million, while the Lottery’s hard-working retail partners earned a record $28.9 million in commissions and incentives for selling Lottery products. This is an average of $9,682 per business.

Lottery sales generated $119.6 million for state projects and programs, which is up $3.3 million, or 2.9 percent, over last year. The Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund, Game & Fish Fund and Natural Resources Fund received $53.5 million, while $64.7 million was transferred to the General Fund.

“The Lottery’s mission is to generate revenue for Minnesota,” Harris said. “We work hard to maximize the contributions for the many important programs that benefit from this money.”

Since its inception, the Lottery has raised more than $1.7 billion for state programs. The General Fund has received over $1 billion to help fund important functions such as education, public safety and health and human services. Another $677 million has funded critical environmental programs.

Financial Results for FY09 (all numbers are unaudited):
          

Lottery players must be 18 years of age or older. Please play responsibly. If you or someone you know needs help with a gambling problem, call (800) 333-HOPE.

This document is available in alternative formats to individuals with disabilities by calling (651) 635-8273. TTY users should dial (651) 635-8268 or (800) 657-3833.