Belgium’s Court of First Instance of Tournai has upheld the legality of the country’s near-total gambling advertising ban, dismissing arguments from operators and sports teams. The ban which began on July 1, will cover various media channels, including television, radio, print, and online platforms. The court ruled that the ban serves a legitimate public interest and gives organizations sufficient time to adjust since certain provisions will not take effect until 2027. While gambling sponsorships will initially be allowed, a phased ban will eventually end stadium and team sponsorships by 2028. The ban has faced criticism from the industry, which believes it will benefit the illegal gambling market.
The Minnesota Lottery game “Road Trip” highlights small towns and iconic locations around the state. In a recent blog post, the Lottery showcased the next image of the ticket, which focused on Big Ole, an impressive 28-foot-tall Viking statue originally crafted for the 1965 New York World’s Fair. The post also mentioned how the Lottery has dedicated over $600,000 in lottery proceeds to support initiatives like water quality treatments and carp removal in the scenic lakes of Agnes and Winona. Lake Brophy Park has also received $100,000 in lottery funds for trail system expansion.
The Florida Lottery has introduced four new “YEAR FOR LIFE” scratch-off games, ranging in price from $1 to $10. These games offer various cash prizes and the chance to win a yearly payout for life. The games include $25,000, $50,000, $150,000, and $250,000 a year for life prizes, with different odds of winning for each game.
Allwyn, the incoming operator of the UK National Lottery, has appointed VCCP and Leo Burnett as joint creative advertising agencies to support the lottery during the first two years of its upcoming Fourth License. VCCP will handle marketing communications for Lotto and Set For Life games, while Leo Burnett will develop campaigns for the National Lottery brand to enhance its position and increase proceeds for Good Causes.
Following up on an earlier story, Ohio is expected to double to 20% on sports betting revenue as part of the new 2024-2025 executive budget. The budget bill, House Bill 33, has been approved by the state’s Senate and House. The additional tax revenue will be used to fund community-focused causes, such as education. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine expressed his pride in signing the budget, emphasizing its investment in the state’s economy, communities, and families.
Senator Dwayne San Nicolas has introduced Bill Number 145-37 in Guam to establish a government-operated lottery commission. The aim is to generate revenue for the island and support various government programs. The bill proposes regulating different types of gaming activities, including lotteries, casinos, and games of chance. Sen. San Nicolas believes this will provide a revenue source without taxing the people. Similar government lotteries exist in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, contributing to funding various programs. If enacted, the bill will create a dedicated government of the Guam Lottery Commission to manage and operate the lottery, potentially funding a range of government initiatives.