Most U.S. states operate an official lottery, which involves various games of chance, in order to raise state revenue. A lot of state lotteries are promoted with a specific funding goal in mind, such as K-12 education or college scholarships, but proceeds often are put back into the general fund. Most state lotteries offer a variety of instant-win games at different price points (and corresponding odds) in addition to weekly drawings, while many states participate in nationwide drawings with jackpots in the tens of millions of dollars. Lotteries are still controversial for moral reasons, but more states have embraced the practice as a way to raise needed revenue without raising taxes.
The Kansas State Lottery: Overview
Kansas established its official lottery after nearly two-thirds of voters approved a 1986 ballot initiative, with the first tickets sold in 1987. The state now participates in Powerball and other multistate games. The FAQ section on the Kansas Lottery Web site provides additional information.
The following chart provides additional details about state lottery laws in Arkansas.
| Code Section | 74-8701, et seq.; 79-4801, et seq. |
| Distribution of Lottery Revenue | 30% lottery operating fund for expenses; 45% prizes; rest to state gaming revenues fund and state general fund for state economic development, correctional institution buildings, county reappraisal fund |
| Additional Purpose of Lottery | - |
| Lottery Prize Subject to Garnishment | - |
| Time Limit to Claim Prize/Disposition | Winners have 180 days after the announced end time for a game if it is a scratch-off ticket. Always sign the back of the ticket. |
| Payment of Winnings | Prizes up to $599 may be claimed at retail locations, while those $600 and greater must be claimed at the Kansas Lottery Office (in person or by mail). |
| Prohibited Related Activities | Forgery; unauthorized sale; sale at greater price; sale to minor (under 18); sale of lottery ticket through email or telephone |
Note: State laws are always subject to change at any time, usually through the enactment of newly signed statutes but also through ballot initiatives, case law, and other means. You may want to contact a Kansas gaming attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Research the Law
Kansas State Lottery Laws: Related Resources
