One person may be a tad richer after a record-setting $1.6 billion dollar Mega Millions jackpot, but for New York, lottery sales generated over $68.9 million for the state’s public schools and lotto retailers.
Lottery sales in the state for the Mega Millions totaled $168.07 million dollars with all profits from the sales going to the state’s K-12 public schools. The state’s public schools received a total of $58.82 million dollars and commissions from the Mega Millions sales to retailers totaled $10.08 million.
“For decades, New York’s schools and lottery retailers have seen real benefits from lottery sales,” said Gaming Commission Chair Brian O’Dwyer. “Even though Wednesday’s Mega Millions top prize was won elsewhere, New York’s students and small businesses across the state continue to be repeat winners. We will continue to promote responsible enjoyment of these fun and exciting games and look forward to the next jackpot.”
Just last month, the state’s public schools received a sizable paycheck of $46.9 million from the $1 billion Powerball jackpot.
