Maine Lottery - General Information
The idea of starting a Maine lottery operation was first championed by Rep. Arthur Genest of Waterville. In 1973, Genest sponsored a bill to introduce a lottery in Maine. When the public was asked to vote in 1973, the answer was a resounding “yes,” and the Lottery began operations in 1974.
Then-governor Kenneth M. Curtis drew the first lottery numbers on June 27, 1974. The numbers were printed on large rubber balls and drawn from a gumball machine. A Lewiston mechanic, Ivan Lazure was the first winner, with a $20 jackpot.
Where the Money Goes
Fiscal Year 2008 (July 1, 2007 - June 30, 2008)
$49,491,086 was transferred to the General Fund in Fiscal Year 2008. There are over 250 programs supported by the General Fund.
The following gives an overview of the Maine State Lottery's disbursements for FY 2008.
1. Player Prizes - $143,951,249
By law, a minimum of 45% of Lottery sales must be dedicated to prizes. In Fiscal Year 2008, 63% of total Lottery sales were paid out as prizes
2. Agent Commissions and Bonuses- $16,535,950
In Fiscal Year 2008, $16,535,950 was paid to Lottery agents in commissions and bonuses.
3. Vendor Fees - $11,083,323
In Fiscal Year 2008, $11,083,323 was paid to Lottery vendors.
4. Funding for State Programs - $49,491,086
In Fiscal Year 2008, over $49 million was transferred to the General Fund.
5. Outdoor Heritage - $811,844
In Fiscal Year 2008, approximately $811,844 was transferred to the Outdoor Heritage Fund.
6. Maine Operating Expenses - $3,302,223
In Fiscal Year 2008 Maine's Operating Expenses were $3,302,223.
Maine Lottery Games
Maine Hot Lotto Sizzler,
Maine Powerball,
Maine Megabucks Plus,
Maine Weekly Grand, Pick 3 and Pick 4.
Managed by Multi-State Lottery Association.