If you’re a lottery player, you should know that the lottery statutes for each state vary considerably. Some states limit the age at which a person can participate in games such as slot machines or pari-mutuel betting. Others prohibit the sale of lottery tickets or raffles to minors. Still others allow social gambling, such as bingo. And still others don’t even allow commercial gambling, such as sports betting. Nevertheless, it’s important to read all of the laws, as you may not know whether you’re allowed to play.
In addition to the laws limiting the participation of underage players, some jurisdictions also have a minimum age for certain games. For example, Vermont has a restriction on pari-mutuel betting and bingo. While it is not specific, it is known that the minimum age for these games is 18. This means that a minor cannot buy or sell a lottery ticket or play in a bingo game unless he or she is 18 or older. The same applies to casinos. It is also illegal to purchase or sell lottery shares, which is a misdemeanor. Similarly, it is illegal to use electronic lottery devices.
The state of Delaware has one of the strongest restrictions on the lottery. Under the law, a person can only buy a lottery ticket if he or she is at least 18. However, this rule is not strictly enforced; retailers and agents can sell tickets to underage players. Minors can be punished for purchasing a ticket, as well as knowingly aiding a minor in making a wager. The penalty is a fine of up to $100, but it is unlikely that a minor will face serious punishment. On the other hand, a minor who plays illegally could be convicted of a crime.
In Minnesota, a player must be at least 18 to purchase a ticket. The law also restricts the purchase of lottery shares and prohibits the sale of tickets to underage buyers. Furthermore, it is unlawful to recruit a child under 18 for advertising, as the law prohibits the promotion of children under 18 in print media.
Connecticut also has strict restrictions on lottery participation. Unless a minor is accompanied by an adult, the sale of sealed lottery tickets is prohibited, and the sale of lottery tickets or raffles to any underage person is a civil violation. Purchasing a lottery ticket as a gift is also a crime, but the punishment is much less severe. Additionally, Maine’s lottery rules prohibit any person under the age of 18 from purchasing a ticket or receiving a prize. As a result, a minor who receives a prize might be subject to a civil penalty of up to $200.
Similarly, Alaska has a very restrictive set of lottery laws. While the law doesn’t specifically prohibit the sale of raffle tickets to underage individuals, it does restrict all forms of commercial gambling, including sports betting. Even if a minor participates in social gambling, he or she can’t buy a ticket for a friend, and a retailer cannot sell a ticket to a minor.