The bill, S.B. No. 79, aims to regulate lottery games played or facilitated via telephone or through Internet and mobile applications in Texas. It amends Section 466.015(b) of the Government Code to include provisions for enforcing prohibitions against individuals under 18 years of age participating in lottery games, as well as prohibiting the facilitation of lottery game play through these digital platforms. Specifically, it introduces new language that prohibits individuals from purchasing or ordering lottery tickets via telephone or online, and from accepting orders or selling tickets for compensation through these means.

Additionally, the bill establishes criminal offenses for violations of these provisions. A violation of the prohibition against purchasing tickets via telephone or online is classified as a Class C misdemeanor, while violations related to facilitating ticket sales or orders for compensation are classified as Class A misdemeanors. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 466.015 (Government Code 466)