No images? Click here August 18, 2024 NEWS DIGEST by Brandon Waltens
Millions of dollars in lottery tickets are being sold through websites and apps, raising concerns about the vulnerability of children to these sales. This issue was highlighted during an ongoing review of the Texas Lottery Commission by the Sunset Advisory Commission, which evaluates state agencies and recommends efficiencies, changes, or even their abolishment. The lieutenant governor, as president of the Senate, and the Speaker of the House each appoint five members from their respective chambers to the Sunset Commission. Each also appoints one public member. During a recent hearing, representatives from the Texas Lottery Commission faced criticism for their seemingly lax approach toward the growing number of lottery courier companies operating in Texas. According to a staff report from the Sunset Commission, the Legislative Budget Board estimated that couriers accounted for approximately $173 million in lottery sales last fiscal year. These unlicensed courier companies function as intermediaries, selling lottery tickets online to individuals while purchasing the tickets from licensed retailers. The nature of this business model leaves it open to potential misuse by minors, a concern raised by commission members to Ryan Mindell, the executive director of the Lottery Commission. Roger Elswick, a public member of the Sunset Commission, questioned why the Lottery Commission had not sought opinions from the attorney general; instead, they relied on their interpretation of the law. Robert Rivera, the chairman of the Lottery Commission, sought to reassure the Sunset Commission, pledging that the Lottery Commission would “look into best practices nationally” and collaborate with law enforcement to address the issue. Additionally, commission members expressed concern that online courier services accept credit card payments, despite state law prohibiting using credit cards for lottery ticket purchases.
FeaturedTexas A&M is offering a certificate in Social Justice Leadership for this fall 2024 semester. Texas Scorecard received a link to a form where prospective students can request information about nonprofit programs offered by Texas A&M’s Bush School of Government & Public Service. The Social Justice Leadership Certificate is a part of the Bush School’s Center for Nonprofits & Philanthropy. The Bush School website stated this program “was developed for leaders committed to addressing inequities at nonprofit and public service organizations.” StateAttorney General Ken Paxton Challenges Dallas Over State Fair’s Firearms Ban |