Record Sales for Massachusetts Lottery

MASSACHUSETTS – As reported by the Sentinel & Enterprise: "…People are purchasing Massachusetts Lottery tickets in record numbers, Lottery Communications Director Beth Bresnahan said Thursday, despite a stagnant economy and rising gas prices.

"…Despite rising fuel prices, Bresnahan said lottery ticket sales will likely beat last year's total revenue of $4.4 billion.

"'…"Like every entertainment option, we expect rising gas prices to affect sales,' she said. 'Just like movie sales and the travel industry, I'm sure we feel some of that. The difference is the pay-out. With Mega Millions, people say, 'I'll spend the dollar and take my chance at $10 million.'

"…The Massachusetts Lottery pays out 71.6 percent of profits in prize money, Bresnahan said.

"Last year, that amounted to about $3.2 billion in prizes…"