An interesting concept is sprouting up in some areas as lawmakers draft legislation for a welfare lottery ban. The idea is that those in the midst of bankruptcy or on welfare would be prohibited from buying lottery tickets. While many find the idea intriguing, ABC shared the details on Jan. 25 and there definitely are important details to consider.
The welfare lottery ban is making its way through the North Carolina legislature, and Rep. Paul “Skip” Stam is leading the way. His bill would have vendors facing penalities if they knowingly sell lottery tickets to people on welfare or in bankruptcy. The idea of this one, putting the onus on convenience store clerks and the like to police the law, isn't sitting well with many. Some are speaking up and noting they don't think it's their business to be trying to determine who should and shouldn't be able to buy lottery tickets.
ABC notes that a welfare lottery ban would affect approximately 1.7 million in North Carolina who utilize food stamps. Of course it isn't known how many of those on food stamps regularly buy lottery tickets. While the idea of the ban may resonate with many who think those on welfare should be using their money for necessities, at this stage it would seem the proposed legislation is missing the mark.
What's your take on the idea of a welfare lottery ban? Should those selling the tickets be the ones facing fines for making the sales? Is there a better way to tackle what many think is an issue in this type of situation?
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