The Washington Lottery was established in 1982 in order to generate revenue for state programs. The Lottery currently offer the multi-state Mega Millions and Powerball draw games, as well as Lotto, Match 4, Hit 5, the Daily Game and Daily Keno. Over 30 scratch games are also available, with prizes ranging from $1 to $1m.

Lottery profits up to $102m are given to education funds in the state, with any revenues generated from Mega Millions, once the $102m total has been reached, given to the state’s General Fund. Between July 2004 and July 2009 any education revenues were sent to an Education Construction Fund to help build and renovate Washington schools.

In 2009 a $9bn budget gap meant the decision was taken to redirect Lottery money intended for education and economic development contributions to the General Fund to support a range of state programs for the period 2009-11.