States Hope For Increased Lottery Sales During the Holiday Season The recession has hit the United States hard and millions of workers have lost their jobs. As if that wasn't bad enough many state and local governments have had to cut many essential services because of lost tax revenues due to unemployment. The industrialized northeast and Midwest have been the hardest hit. Many states with lotteries report a decline in lottery generated revenue. Since many states fund education with lottery funds many school services have been cut or eliminated. In good economic times state lotteries enhanced state budgets and provided extra money for government services.

This year many state lotteries are hoping that people will purchase lottery tickets and scratch off cards as holiday gifts. Many people use lottery tickets as gifts as a hassle free way to shop and an easy alternative to having to shop for gifts. Many states report that sales of lottery tickets and scratch off games are down. People hard hit by the ongoing recession have less disposable income and are spending what money they do have for essentials. Lottery players that formerly set aside a certain amount of money to purchase lottery tickets have cut way back on lottery spending.

When times get tough and money is in short supply the first expense most people cut is entertainment. Most lottery players see the lottery as a form of entertainment and consider playing the lottery as a non essential expense. State lotteries across the US are hoping that the holiday season will increase ticket sales. In addition many states have allowed the introduction of casinos to help fill empty state coffers. Casinos across the country report a decline in business due to the recession. Many states now allow the cross sales of Mega Millions and Powerball lottery tickets in an attempt to lure lottery players back to lottery outlets and retailers. Many states are optimistic that ticket sales will increase during the upcoming holiday season.

Recently some states have followed the lead of European lotteries and now allow players to purchase lotto tickets online. The popularity of online lottery tickets in Europe has been clearly demonstrated. Players appreciate the convenience that online lottery tickets provide. A trip to a lottery retailer to purchase lottery tickets is no longer necessary and players can check for the latest winning numbers from their home computer or mobile device. Many lotteries are quickly taking advantage of 21st century technology and all the conveniences it can provide for players.