With the holiday shopping season underway, the New York State Gaming Commission’s Division of Lottery is reminding New Yorkers that lottery tickets are not suitable gifts for anyone under the age of 18.

“New York Lottery games are intended to provide responsible fun and entertainment for adults – not kids,” said Gaming Commission Chair Brian O’Dwyer. “Research shows that the earlier a person begins gambling, the more likely they are to develop a gambling problem. That’s why we urge all New Yorkers to keep lottery tickets out of the hands of minors and to play responsibly throughout the year.”

The annual reminder is part of the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG)’s Gift Responsibly campaign to educate communities about the dangers of gifting lottery tickets to children, raise awareness about the risks of youth gambling and promote responsible gambling practices for those of legal age who choose to gamble. New York State’s responsible gaming advertising campaigns were recently recognized by the NCPG and the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries (NASPL).

Elements of The Commission’s 2024 Gift Responsibly campaign can be viewed here:

Gift Responsibly TV/OLV “Fragile” (English)

Gift Responsibly TV/OLV “Fragile” (Spanish)

Gift Responsibly Radio/Streaming Audio “Go Long” (English)

Gift Responsibly Radio/Streaming Audio “Go Long” (Spanish)

The New York Lottery is also reminding its more than 14,000 licensed retailers that selling Lottery tickets to anyone under the legal purchase age of 18 is a misdemeanor under NY Tax Law §1610(a).

New York Council on Problem Gambling Executive Director Jim Maney said, “The Council is pleased to be part of this effort to raise awareness that gambling is an unhealthy activity for youth. The holiday season is a time for joy and love. Parents, let’s spread the cheer this year, not lottery tickets.”

About the Responsible Play Partnership

The Commission, the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS), and the New York Council on Problem Gambling founded the Responsible Play Partnership (RPP) to bring all stakeholders together to address problem gambling, including bridging the gap between gaming facility operators and problem gambling treatment providers. The RPP works to ensure that all gaming entities in the state comply with all rules and regulations and provide access to help for individuals who need it. The RPP continues to collaborate to advance New York’s ongoing commitment to prevent and treat problem gambling.

Those seeking help can call New York State’s free and confidential HOPEline 24/7 at 1-877-8- HOPENY (1-877-846-7369) or text HOPENY (467369).