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Oregon Legislators Consider Ban on Selling Winning Lottery Tickets

Oregon Lawmakers Propose Ban on Lottery Ticket Resales to Combat Tax Evasion

Oregon state lawmakers are considering new legislation aimed at prohibiting the resale of winning lottery tickets, a practice that has raised concerns over tax evasion and uncollected child support payments. The proposed House Bill 3115, sponsored by Rep. John Lively, D-Springfield, seeks to prevent individuals from buying or selling winning tickets.

Currently, a network of so-called lottery discounters, including pawn shop owners, buy tickets from winners—typically those with prizes over $1,500—at steep discounts. These discounters then claim the full prize amounts from lottery payment centers, a practice highlighted in a recent investigation by The Oregonian. This system not only circumvents the garnishment of taxes and child support from winners but may also facilitate money laundering, prompting concerns from law enforcement and state officials.

During the House Committee on Commerce and Consumer Protection’s public hearing, representatives discussed the ethical implications of these transactions. Many winners, driven by convenience or the desire to remain anonymous, often sell their prizes despite potentially jeopardizing their financial futures.

The Oregon Lottery has recognized the prevalence of this practice. While they prohibit retailers from buying winning tickets at discounted rates, enforcement remains challenging due to the anonymous nature of lottery transactions. Other states, such as Texas and Georgia, have implemented stricter laws against ticket resales, with some resulting in criminal charges against offenders.

As the legislative hearing progressed, bipartisan support emerged for the bill, with lawmakers emphasizing the need to clarify and enforce bans against such schemes. The proposal seeks to empower the Oregon Lottery with the authority to enact additional rules, reinforcing the integrity of the state’s lottery system. While no vote took place at the hearing, Governor Tina Kotek has expressed her backing for measures to curb ticket resales.

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