West Virginia Lottery and casinos generate more than $1 billion annually to support many programs locals rely on

Monday, February 26, 2024 6:22 PM
Photo:  CDC Gaming
  • Damian Phillips, The State Journal

Adding together table games, racetrack betting, sports wagers, video lottery games and the rest of the industry, more than $1.3 billion was spent playing the lottery in West Virginia last year.

The West Virginia Lottery in its entirety contributes more than $500 million to the state each year, with another $700 million paid out in prizes and commissions to retailers.

The funds collected by the state support education, senior and veteran services, the infrastructure council, tourism and the state’s general fund.

Casinos and hotspots employ thousands of people across West Virginia. They also provide entertainment to locals and bring tourism into their communities, said L&E Group Lobbyist Ryan Lemmon.