JUNEAU, Alaska _ In a sweeping new plan for Alaska's first statewide lottery, Gov. Mike Dunleavy is proposing the legalization of video lottery as well as keno, scratch-off tickets and sports betting.
The governor's proposal shares space on the legislative docket with a more limited idea from Republican House Majority Leader Steve Thompson. Thompson has proposed allowing only a draw-style lottery, including the popular Powerball and Mega Millions, which are also included in the Dunleavy plan.
Both men have said their goal is to raise additional money for the state treasury and close a fiscal gap estimated at $1.5 billion if the state pays a Permanent Fund dividend of $3,100 to $3,200 per person.
A Department of Revenue official estimated the state could collect $100 million per year if the governor's plan is implemented in full. Thompson's plan would generate $8 million to $10 million in state revenue, he said.
Alaska is one of five states that does not have a lottery, according to the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries, The Associated Press reported.
