HB5017 Summary

• Creates an internet pilot program allowing Illinois residents 18+ to purchase lottery tickets online, limited to Lotto and Mega Millions games, with transactions restricted to within Illinois.

• Requires the Department of Lottery to submit the internet pilot program plan to the U.S. Department of Justice for review before implementation and proceed only if DOJ does not object within a reasonable timeframe.

• Pilot program duration set at 36-48 months from initial operation, with the private lottery manager authorized to implement and administer the program under a management agreement.

• Adds internet lottery ticket purchases as an exemption to criminal gambling laws in the Criminal Code, specifically carving out activities under the Illinois Lottery Law Section 7.12 program.

• Makes technical corrections to the Illinois Lottery Law, Raffles Act, and Criminal Code of 1961 related to licensing and gambling definitions.