A lottery is a form of gambling in which numbers are drawn for a prize. Traditionally, the prize is money but may also be goods or services. The game is regulated by law in many jurisdictions. In the United States, state-licensed operators conduct lottery games. Private entities also operate lotteries.
In recent years, Internet access and computer technology have enabled people to play lottery-style games online for free or for a small fee. The GTech Corporation, based in West Greenwich, Rhode Island, administers 70% of worldwide online lottery sales. The company offers a variety of products, including instant-win games and mobile phone lottery apps. It has also partnered with several websites to sell tickets on behalf of the Laos government-run lottery.
Online gambling laws have not kept pace with the technological advances of the Internet, and lottery-style games are now available to players worldwide. Some of these sites charge a premium on the base lottery price to provide convenience, security and other features. Others are entirely free to use and do not require registration or payment. This has caused legal challenges and raised public concern about the safety of such activities.
During the Vietnam War, tens of thousands of Iu Mien families fled Laos and Thailand to escape American forces. Most eventually settled in the United States, especially along the West Coast. They have since built communities in Portland, where they have a Buddhist temple, Baptist church, social organizations and businesses. Cheng Saephan, a 41-year-old immigrant, is one of them. He said he will share his $1.3 billion winnings with his wife, daughter and a friend.
At a news conference Monday, Saephan said he was a bit nervous. He wore a sash that identified him as an Iu Mien. He has a Ph.D in electrical engineering and is a software developer. His wife, Duanpen, is a pharmacist. They are both from Laos and have two children.
The winner was the third largest in Powerball history. The first prize was $390 million, and the second was $422 million. The winnings will be paid out over 30 years, or the winner can choose a lump-sum payment that is much less.
In New Zealand, state-owned Crown entity Lotto New Zealand controls four games: Lotto, Powerball, Keno and Instant Kiwi. Lotto New Zealand donates profits to a number of community organizations, including Sport and Recreation New Zealand, Creative New Zealand and the NZ Film Commission. The money is allocated by a committee of Lottery Grants Board members. Lottery proceeds are also used to fund education systems. In addition, the New Zealand Rugby Union and the NZ cricket team receive lottery funding. This is in line with the government’s goal of promoting national sporting success.