Utah is thinking about a fun new way to raise money for the state! Unlike most places, Utah doesn't have a lottery yet. This is because of the some religion's views on gambling. But here's the cool thing: even though Utah doesn't have a lottery, people who live there spend millions of dollars every year playing lotteries in other states!
A new idea called HJR 24 could change this. It would let everyone in Utah vote on whether to have a state-run lottery. This lottery could bring in lots of extra money for the state, which could be used for things like parks, schools, and maybe even lower property taxes! Plus, all that money Utahns are already spending on out-of-state lotteries could stay in Utah and help their communities.
Of course, there are some people who don't like the idea of a lottery. But the good news is that Utahns will get to decide if they want one. This vote could be a great way for everyone to have a say in how Utah raises money for important things. .
Can You Play the Lottery if You Live in Utah?
It's not illegal to buy lottery tickets from other states. If you're a Utahn with lottery dreams, you can simply travel to a neighboring state like Idaho, Wyoming, Arizona, or Colorado to purchase tickets. These states all have thriving lotteries, so you won't have to go far. Since Utah doesn't have its own lottery, but the urge to play might strike, here's a quick guide to your neighboring lottery paradises:
Neighbouring States Where Utah Residents Can Play the Lottery
Idaho
Head north to Idaho and enjoy classics like Powerball, Mega Millions, and Lucky for Life. They also offer their own in-state games like Pick 3 and Pick 4, with exciting daily and nightly drawings.Wyoming
Venture east to Wyoming and test your luck with Powerball and Mega Millions. They also have their own games like Cowboy Draw and Mega Millions Multiplier, offering a chance to win big.Arizona
Take a southwest road trip to Arizona and dive into a wider pool of games. Play national favorites like Powerball and Mega Millions alongside Arizona-exclusive options like The Pick and Fantasy 5.
Has Anyone From Utah Ever Won the Lottery?
Utah may not have its own lottery, but that doesn't stop its residents from dreaming big. In fact, some lucky Utahns have defied the odds and become instant millionaires by playing the lottery in neighboring states!
Back in 2016, the Powerball jackpot reached an incredible sum. Feeling the lottery fever, a resident of Salt Lake City decided to take action. They made a quick trip to a neighboring state with a lottery and purchased a Powerball ticket.
On the drawing night, anticipation filled the air as the winning numbers were revealed. With a pounding heart, the Utah resident checked their ticket against the winning combination. Disbelief quickly turned to pure joy! The numbers matched perfectly! This Utahn had just become a multi-millionaire thanks to a lottery ticket purchased in another state.
This story is a powerful reminder that geography doesn't have to limit your lottery dreams. Even without a Utah lottery, residents can still participate in the excitement and potentially win life-changing sums by venturing to a neighboring state. So, remember this story – it proves that Utahns can be just as lucky as anyone else!
Wondering About Utah Lottery Taxes?
When a Utah resident wins the lottery in another state, they'll face taxes on their winnings from two sources:
Federal Tax
The federal government takes a cut of any lottery winnings exceeding $5,000. This applies regardless of where you buy the ticket.State Tax (Where Purchased)
This is where it gets complicated. Utah itself doesn't have a lottery tax. But, the state where you actually bought the ticket might withhold its own taxes on your winnings. So, it's important to research the tax laws of the state you visit to play the lottery.
Will Utah Ever Get Its Own Lottery?
The question of a Utah lottery has been swirling for years. Supporters see it as a way to raise money for important public programs like education or social services. The potential for increased revenue is a tempting prospect. Imagine better schools, improved infrastructure, or maybe even lower taxes!
However, the path to a Utah lottery isn't paved with good intentions alone. Strong religious and social opposition exists. Their beliefs emphasize self-reliance and work ethic, often viewing lotteries as promoting a "get rich quick" mentality.
So, what's next for the Utah lottery? The future remains uncertain. The debate is complex, reflecting the unique social and religious landscape of the state.
