PORTSMOUTH, Va. — As the holiday season approaches, the Virginia Lottery is emphasizing the importance of responsible gift-giving, specifically when it comes to lottery tickets. Khalid Jones, the Executive Director of the Virginia Lottery, highlights a critical reminder that only individuals aged 18 and over are legally permitted to play the lottery.
Jones expressed concern that while many people may have good intentions, they may unknowingly violate this law. “A lot of people who are well intentioned and well meaning, they may slip up and they just don’t understand that,” he stated. He firmly stressed that gifting lottery tickets to minors is illegal, urging people to reconsider the idea.
To spread awareness, the Virginia Lottery has launched a public service announcement timed for the holiday season, underlining the message, “Scratchers for kids? Scratch that idea.” This initiative aims to ensure that Virginians adhere to the age restrictions associated with lottery participation.
The Executive Director pointed out that the influence of early exposure to gambling can lead to long-term problems. “The younger a person starts gambling, the greater possibility that a person could develop a gambling problem later on in life,” he explained. Thus, Jones recommends parents and guardians to explore alternative gifts that foster creativity and growth, such as sports equipment or educational materials, rather than lottery tickets.
“Absolutely positively, no gifting to minors. No one under the age of 18 can play or purchase a lottery ticket in Virginia,” Jones reiterated, urging the community to keep children away from gambling entirely. He encouraged thoughtful gift selections that nurture young minds and bodies as the holidays draw near.
This timely reminder serves as a call for the community to take intentional actions in safeguarding the well-being of minors, ensuring that the holiday spirit is celebrated responsibly.