House votes to let multistate lottery winners keep their names private

Michigan jackpot winners would be able to claim Powerball or Mega Millions prizes without their names appearing in a press release under a measure that cleared the House on March 19.

The bill (HB 4004), sponsored by Rep. Outman, extends to multistate lottery games an anonymity option that already applies to in-state Michigan Lottery winners over a certain prize threshold. Supporters say public identification of jackpot winners has fueled harassment, scams, and even threats. Skeptics worry that hiding winners reduces public trust in the games.

The House passed the bill 102 to 3 with five members not voting on Roll Call No. 44 and gave it immediate effect. It moved to the Senate on April 14 and was referred to the Committee on Regulatory Affairs.

The bill awaits Senate action.