AUSTIN, TX – A recent Lotto Texas jackpot win, secured through a courier service, has prompted the Texas Lottery Commission to crack down on these unregulated businesses.
Executive Director Ryan Mindell announced Monday, Feb. 24, that courier services for lottery tickets are illegal under Texas law, and the agency will pursue formal rule amendments to ban their operation within the state.
Effective immediately, the policy reflects growing concerns about the integrity, security, and fairness of Texas Lottery operations. Under the proposed amendments, any licensed retailer working with a courier service would have their lottery ticket sales agent license revoked.
The proposed rule changes will be presented at an open meeting on Tuesday, March 4, with plans for adoption in April following a 30-day public comment period.
What Are Lottery Courier Services?
Couriers are unregulated businesses that allow customers to order lottery tickets online. Once paid, the courier purchases a physical ticket from a licensed retailer—often located in the same building—and sends the customer a scanned image while holding onto the original ticket until a result is determined.
These services charge fees for ticket management but operate without regulatory oversight, raising concerns about consumer protection, the potential for fraud, and other criminal activities.
State Leadership Cracks Down on Unregulated Services
“The Texas Lottery was established to provide a secure and transparent system for players to purchase tickets in person from licensed brick-and-mortar retailers,” Mindell said. “Courier services operating in Texas have been a significant concern for our stakeholders.”
Mindell, who became executive director less than a year ago, cited a recent legal review and investigations as reasons for the action.
“We are moving to prohibit courier services in Texas to ensure all ticket sales comply with state law and maintain public trust,” he said.
Texas Lottery Commission Chairman Robert G. Rivera added, “Our priority is to protect the security and integrity of the Texas Lottery. Maintaining a well-regulated lottery system is essential for responsibly generating revenue for public education and veterans’ services.”
Legislative Efforts to Ban Couriers
The jackpot win has intensified scrutiny from lawmakers, with bills such as HB 389, SB 28, and SB 79—introduced in the 89th Texas Legislature—aiming to outlaw courier services entirely.
Concerns over the legality and oversight of these services have grown in recent years. On Feb. 14, the Commission requested an opinion from the Texas Attorney General’s Office regarding its authority over couriers. Just three days later, the high-profile jackpot win through a courier fueled further debate.
Following investigations and legal reviews, the agency is now taking decisive action to halt courier activity in Texas and preserve the integrity of the state’s lottery system.
Subscribe to the LIVE! Daily
Required
Post a comment to this article here: