The state of South Carolina, thanks to their mystery $1.5 billion winner, will receive an extra $61 million in tax revenue. The issue is what to do with this extra, one-time windfall of cash. Republicans wish to give the money back to the people in the form a $50 tax rebate for every citizen. The $61 million will be combined with another $34 million already set aside for this purpose. Democrats wish to use it to give a bonus to state employees.
Money directly earned by lottery revenue must be used to support the education system in South Carolina. But because this money is coming in through tax income, it is unrestricted in how it can be used. The issue will be debated during budget discussions on March 11th.