GULF BREEZE, Fla. — Jeremy Smith, a 49-year-old resident of Lillian, Alabama, is celebrating a $2 million win after purchasing a TRIPLE 777 Scratch-Off ticket in Florida. The Florida Lottery announced that Smith claimed the top prize at Lottery Headquarters in Tallahassee and chose a lump-sum payment of $1,280,000. The winning ticket was purchased from a CEFCO Convenience Store in Gulf Breeze, and the store earned a $4,000 bonus for selling the lucky ticket.
The TRIPLE 777 game offers significant winnings, with over $158.8 million in cash prizes available. Players have the chance to win up to 15 times on a single ticket, and the game’s overall odds are favorable at 1-in-3.51.
While Alabama residents like Smith are winning big in neighboring states, the absence of a state lottery remains a controversial issue. Many Alabamians travel across state lines to buy tickets, contributing to Florida’s revenue without benefiting Alabama. Lottery proponents argue that the establishment of a state lottery could provide substantial financial support for Alabama’s education and infrastructure needs.
Currently, Alabama is one of the few states without a lottery, a decision rooted in a combination of political and religious opposition. Yet, neighboring states like Florida and Georgia rake in millions from ticket sales, money that could otherwise be invested locally. Supporters highlight the relatively harmless nature of lotteries compared to other forms of gambling, noting their potential to generate revenue without raising taxes.
With thousands of Alabama residents crossing into Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi each year to participate, the loss of potential state income is stark. Recent studies suggest that a lottery could generate over $200 million annually for Alabama, funding crucial programs like education and healthcare.
As Jeremy Smith enjoys his newfound wealth, the debate continues: should Alabama finally introduce its own lottery and stop sending its money — and its winners — to other states?