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Lottery couriers may see big changes under New Jersey's new proposal

The 60-day comment period is now open, inviting players and pros to weigh in on the future of ticket delivery.

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Todd Betzold

New Jersey is looking to give its lottery courier rules a modern makeover. In a move that could reshape how players get their tickets, the state has unveiled a proposal to streamline and update its regulations.

The changes aim to keep pace with technology while making life easier for couriers and maybe even a little smoother for players, too. Will the proposed changes take effect though?

Proposed changes for lottery courier services

The New Jersey Lottery has announced a Notice of Proposal to amend the rules governing registered courier services. These proposed changes were filed with the New Jersey Office of Administrative Law and published in the June 2, 2025, edition of the New Jersey Register.

These proposals are part of the lottery's ongoing efforts to modernize and streamline operations while upholding transparency, integrity, and public trust.

The proposed amendments apply to N.J.A.C. 17:20 6.3, 12.5, 12.10, 12.16, 12.18, and 12.21. The updates that officials are proposing are designed to clarify and revise administrative and compliance requirements for lottery couriers to make sure they align with current industry standards.

Some of the key areas of revision include licensing and insurance requirements, financial reporting and auditing procedures, and ticket purchases and delivery processes by these lottery couriers. The proposed changes are expected to streamline the operations of lottery couriers, as well as enhance the lottery's oversight functions.

Changes for couriers and affiliates

Unlike all the issues the Texas Lottery is dealing with concerning lottery couriers, New Jersey is one of two states, along with New York, that regulates lottery couriers. These proposed changes are being put in place to bring lottery courier services into the digital age.

Among the notable provisions for couriers under these proposals are revised insurance and indemnification standards, updated processes for financial transactions and ticket redemption, and modified audit and reporting obligations.

As far as affiliate agents are concerned, these proposed amendments would simplify compliance by allowing separate remittances of proceeds and commissions.

In the end, these proposals would allow lottery courier services to operate more efficiently. The proposals would reduce administrative burdens while better reflecting the current technological and economic landscape.

Open for public comment

The full text of the proposal is available in the New Jersey Register, as well as on the New Jersey Lottery's website. Members of the public and industry stakeholders are encouraged to read the full proposal and leave any feedback during the next 60 days.

Written comments must be submitted by August 1, 2025, to Ryan Schaffer, Division of State Lottery, P.O. Box 041, Trenton, NJ 08625-0041. You can also email your comments to the New Jersey Lottery.

Mixed thoughts from other states

While New York and New Jersey are the only states to regulate lottery courier services, other states don't seem to be getting on board. Illinois is the only state that is considering adding courier services to its lottery play and allowing the state to regulate the couriers.

Meanwhile, we have seen Texas ban lottery couriers in the state amid their legal issues. In addition, Indiana voted to ban lottery couriers in the state and officials in Connecticut are also looking to ban them in their state.

Enjoy playing the New Jersey Lottery, and please remember to play responsibly.

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