Lawmakers discuss handling of online couriers with Texas Lottery Commission | NewsRadio 740 KTRH | KTRH Local Houston and Texas News

It’s possible that some lottery tickets sold in Texas through different “middle man” websites and apps are being bought by children.

The Texas Lottery Commission has been under a review by the Sunset Advisory Commission, a group made up of lawmakers and a few members of the public appointed by the Senate President and the Speaker of the House. The Sunset Advisory Commission evaluates the agencies and could also make recommendations to them. Reviews happen around every 10 years.

Representatives of the Texas Lottery Commission faced criticism from the Sunset Advisory Commission during a recent hearing over how they’ve dealt with the now large number of lottery courier companies that are operating in the state.

Courier companies are unlicensed websites or apps where people can purchase lottery tickets that are bought by the couriers through licensed retailers. The Legislative Budget Board says couriers made up about $173 million of lottery sales last fiscal year, according to a report from the Sunset Commission.

Brandon Waltens, senior editor at Texas Scorecard, says these online couriers have made it possible for children to buy lottery tickets.

“It opens up the possibility that children are able to purchase lottery tickets, minors, people that aren’t eligible to play.

On top of that, these courier companies allow for lottery tickets to be bought with credit cards, which is illegal.

“We wouldn’t want people to be racking up debt playing the lotto and yet many of these apps and websites accept credit cards,” Waltens said.

Online courier companies are operating in multiple states, not just Texas, but they’re not licensed retailers.

Waltens said lawmakers were asked about getting assistance on this issue from the Attorney General’s Office, which they did not do. It’s likely the AG would look to shut it down.

“Lawmakers are looking at whether or not they want to continue funding this agency and if they do, what kind of changes do they want to stipulate into law next session,” he said.