Representative Rob Hutton and Senator Fred Risser released proposed legislation for co-sponsorship today (LRB 3211/1) that would cap spending on lottery advertising at $5M annually, as well limiting the scope of advertising with protective measures. The lottery is a regressive tax aimed at the poor. Research shows that the highest per capita sales are sold within the zips codes with the lowest per capita income. Government-sponsored gambling pits government’s interests against the best interests of its people, and preys on...

We have some great news! As you may recall, Governor Walker’s 2017-19 budget calls for increasing annual lottery advertising spending by $3 million to $10.5 million. That’s a 40% boost in funding for advertising aimed at increasing lottery sales, many of which are sold in the zip codes with the lowest per capita income. As we know, this advertising comes at a cost that can be measured in tax dollars spent and the devastating impact of gambling on Wisconsin families....