Massachusetts iLottery Plans Prompt Problem Gambling Concerns

For more than a decade, lawmakers in Massachusetts explored options for the legalization of online lottery sales. Those efforts emerged back in 2012 but all proposals faced tough opposition.

However, after years of attempts, lawmakers recently found common ground about the legalization of iLottery across the state. Recognized as a compromise budget bill, legislation was signed by Gov. Maura Healey last month that would pave the way for a legal online lottery.

iLottery will be the latest gambling activity residents and visitors of Massachusetts would be able to participate in. Still, there is time before the launch of iLottery which is expected at some point in Q4 next year.

The approval of online follows the legalization of sports betting in August 2022 and the mobile and retail wagering launch across the state from March and January 2023.

However, ahead of the launch of iLottery products across the state, concerns are already mounting about the negative impact of the activity, especially on people affected by at-risk or problem gambling, local media reports.

On Thursday, WGGB disclosed details regarding a recent interview with one Chicopee resident who shared his concern about the impact of the statewide online lottery. The man admitted having had issues with gambling and revealed that this was the case for more than a decade. Speaking about the expansion of sports betting and the upcoming arrival of iLottery, the Chicopee resident said that it is concerning to see gambling activities being at the fingertip of people across the state.

The Concerned Resident Seeks to Raise Awareness

The concerned resident stated his position in a letter sent to the gambling regulator in the state, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission. Ultimately, he seeks to raise awareness of the potential impact of iLottery on gamblers across the state. The man intends to also discuss the matter with the Massachusetts State Treasurer.

“As somebody who self admittedly has a problem gambling over the last decade plus with the legalization of sports betting and the now iLottery coming into place, it just feels like it’s more at people’s fingers than it ever was before,“

revealed the concerned Chicopee resident

The man’s concerns are not without coverage, especially considering the statewide expansion of sports betting. Over the last few years, the growth in popularity of the activity resulted in an uptick in gambling helpline calls across different states.

At the same time, Massachusetts legalized iLottery as a means to generate additional tax revenue. Early projections by industry stakeholders estimate online lottery will bring an extra $100 million in revenue for the state.