MN House Frowns On But Avoids Virtual Lotto Sale Ban
ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — The day of reckoning over the Minnesota Lottery's foray into online gaming has been put off.
House members voiced disapproval Tuesday over Internet and gas pump gambling options the lottery introduced. But they kept a ban out of a gambling regulation bill for now, declining to follow the Senate's lead.
A possible prohibition is almost certain to resurface before adjournment.
Lawmakers are upset that lottery officials began selling instant-play and draw tickets online without prior approval. GOP Rep. Greg Davids says the Legislature should "pin their ears back a little bit." Democratic Rep. Michael Paymar says he doesn't understand the outrage because the lottery's charge is to make money for environmental programs and other concerns.
Lottery officials say they'll need time to wind down paperless games if a ban prevails.
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