A new study says California could help its budget deficit if it put lottery gambling on the web and sold tickets in big retail stores. Eric Niiler reports from Washington.
Last year, California residents plunked down nearly three billion dollars to play the lottery - a third of the proceeds went to support education. But a new industry-funded study says the state could bring in thirteen billion dollars with a few changes. Wayne Adams authored the report.
"Its time to attract new customers because the existing customers aren't spending as much money on gaming. their time is ending, so you have to go to the new demographic. and that's exciting in a way because it brings the internet into play," he says.
Right now, internet gambling is illegal in the U-S - but it still generated 7 point five billion dollars. The study also recommended California sell tickets in more store and restaurants, and add more interesting games. From Capitol News Connection in Washington, I'm Eric Niiler for KPBS News.
