Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB373

Introduced
2/21/23  
Refer
2/21/23  
Refer
8/30/23  
Report Pass
9/18/23  
Engrossed
9/18/23  

Caption

In State lottery, further providing for definitions and providing for disclosure of certain prizewinner identities.

Impact

The proposed modifications to the State Lottery Law will significantly affect how the Pennsylvania lottery operates and the privacy rights of its winners. By establishing stricter confidentiality measures, the bill seeks to align the state's lottery operations with similar privacy laws in other jurisdictions. This move could alter public perceptions of lottery participation, encouraging more people to participate by assuring them that their identities will be protected in the event of a significant win. It may also invoke a degree of scrutiny on the Department of Revenue's handling of prize-related personal information.

Summary

Senate Bill 373 seeks to amend the State Lottery Law in Pennsylvania to enhance the confidentiality surrounding lottery prize winners. The bill introduces a statute that would keep the identities of individuals who win lottery prizes of $100,000 or more confidential, prohibiting their names and personal information from being considered public records. Exceptions are made for their city or township of residence, county, and the prize amount, which will remain public information. This change aims to protect the privacy of substantial lottery winners while maintaining transparency about the state's revenue from the lottery system.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 373 appears to be largely positive among legislators who advocate for winner confidentiality. Proponents assert that protecting the identities of large prize winners is critical in shielding them from potential harassment and ensures their safety. However, some concerns may arise regarding the balance between transparency and privacy, with critics questioning whether the public has a right to know who benefits significantly from state-funded programs like the lottery.

Contention

Notable points of contention include discussions about the implications for transparency in how lottery funds are used, as some may argue that keeping winners' identities secret undermines public trust in the lottery system. Furthermore, the bill has prompted debate over how far the state should go in protecting individual privacy rights versus the public's right to know. The discussion signifies an ongoing tension between protecting individuals and fostering transparency in government proceedings.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB73

In State lottery, further providing for definitions and providing for disclosure of certain prizewinner identities.

PA HB1635

In State lottery, further providing for definitions and providing for disclosure of certain prizewinner identities.

PA HB2038

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in games of chance, further providing for prize limits.

PA SB26

In State Lottery, further providing for powers and duties of secretary.

PA HB1058

In State Lottery, further providing for statement of purpose and for powers and duties of secretary.

PA HB1072

In senior citizens property tax and rent rebate assistance, further providing for definitions and for filing and payment of claim. Amending the act of August 26, 1971 (P.L.351, No.91), known as the State Lottery Law, in State Lottery, further providing for disposition of funds.

PA SB1081

In ethics standards and financial disclosure, further providing for definitions and for restricted activities, providing for gift ban and for gift ban exceptions and further providing for statement of financial interests.

PA HB744

In ethics standards and financial disclosure, further providing for definitions and for restricted activities, providing for gift ban and for gift ban exceptions and further providing for statement of financial interests.

PA SB97

In ethics standards and financial disclosure, further providing for definitions, for restricted activities, for statement of financial interests and for penalties; in lobbying disclosure, further providing for definitions, for reporting and for penalties; and, in Turnpike Commission standards of conduct, further providing for code of conduct.

PA HB1704

In general provisions relating to residential real property, further providing for definitions; in seller disclosures, further providing for disclosure form and providing for website information and for flood disclosure; and imposing duties on the Insurance Department.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.