Sometimes, when the Nebraska Lottery pays a major scratch game or Lotto game prize the player isn't the only one who wins. The taxpayers win too. The Nebraska Lottery's computerized validation system compares the winner's social security number with lists of individuals owing back taxes and child support. Those lists are maintained by the Nebraska Department of Revenue and the child support enforcement unit of the Nebraska Health and Human Services System. Prizes account for 54 percent.
Retailers receive a five percent commission.
Contractors receive 10 percent for ticket production and distribution, and sales and validation systems. Advertising and promotion account for three percent and one percent, respectively. Less than three percent supports operations. Supporters say the lottery has caused the number of calls to a state hotline for compulsive gambling to skyrocket. If eliminated, lawmakers will have to find a way to replace the millions of dollars the lottery generates for environmental and educational programs.