The historic $1.602 billion Mega Millions jackpot, drawn on August 8 after 32 suspenseful drawings, not only captured the nation’s attention but also poured over $68.9 million into New York’s public schools and retailer commissions. Amid the record-setting roll, New York witnessed Mega Millions ticket sales skyrocket to an impressive $168.07 million.
The state constitution ensures that all profits from New York Lottery’s sales benefit K-12 public education. Consequently, this Mega Millions run bolstered school funding by a hefty $58.82 million, while New York retailers earned $10.08 million in commissions from ticket sales. Gaming Commission Chair Brian O’Dwyer expressed, “While the Mega Millions jackpot was claimed outside our borders, the real winners here are our students and local businesses. We remain committed to responsible gaming and eagerly await the next grand prize.”
It wasn’t just the state that benefitted; many New Yorkers found themselves luckier during the Mega Millions roll from April 21 to August 8. The winnings included four second-prize winners pocketing $1 million each, 76 third-prize winners collecting $10,000 each, and six Megaplier third-prize winners sharing a cumulative sum of $180,000.
It’s worth noting that this isn’t the first time New York has reaped the rewards of a major lottery event. Just last month, the $1.08 billion Powerball jackpot culminated in an injection of $46.9 million toward education and an additional $8 million in retailer commissions.
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