Lottery puts nearly $10-million into North Dakota general fund

During the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2024, the North Dakota Lottery contributed $9.92 million to the state’s general fund, to support a drug fighting task force and compulsive gambling treatment efforts.

“While most North Dakotans think about the Lottery and the potential to win a life-changing amount, and that is exciting for sure, the value is that the Lottery supports state government and helps keep taxes low” said North Dakota Attorney General Drew H. Wrigley, “which benefits all who live in, work in and visit the great state of North Dakota.”

In Fiscal Year 2024, the Lottery transferred $8.6 million to the State General Fund, funded $1.0 million of the Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force Grant Fund, and provided $320,000 to the Compulsive Gambling Prevention and Treatment Fund to help train compulsive gambling counselors. Similar transfers are planned in the second year of the state’s two-year budget cycle.

In place since 2003, the North Dakota Lottery operates as a division of the Office of the Attorney General, to offer multistate lottery games. The Lottery’s mission is to provide secure and interesting gaming options and to generate revenue for the state. This year marks the 20th year of operation for the Lottery as tickets for Powerball went on sale March 25, 2004. During its 20 years of existence, the Lottery has generated over $149 million for North Dakota State Government, and players have won over $191 million in prizes.

“By transferring a portion of proceeds to the state general fund, the North Dakota Lottery is ensuring that every ticket purchase is a double win: a chance to dream about a life-changing prize for players and help with state programs that benefit all residents,” said Lance Gaebe, Lottery Director. “We value the 450 retail partners who support the state and help make lottery tickets available to players for this win/win.”