LANSING, October 18, 2006 – For the third consecutive year, the Michigan Lottery has contributed a record amount to the state School Aid Fund.  Unaudited figures show that the Lottery’s fiscal year 2006 contribution was $686 million, up 3 percent from last year’s $667.6 million. 

“Having continuous record years is very difficult because each year sets the bar higher.  We are particularly proud because this year’s accomplishment follows two extremely strong years in profits and sales,” Lottery Commissioner Gary Peters said.

In addition to setting a record in contributions to the School Aid Fund, the Lottery increased sales 7 percent over last year, with a record $2.2 billion worth of tickets sold.  While sales were strong in all games, leading the increase was the instant games category, which jumped 7.3 percent over the previous year to a record $711 million.  Not only was the sales amount for instant games a record, but the growth in that category was the strongest it’s been in over 10 years.

“The growth we saw in instant tickets is a direct result of the strong partnership between our district sales representatives and our 10,000 Lottery retailers across the state,” Peters said.  “It is very significant to experience this kind of growth in game category that has been offered to players for over 30 years.”

The fiscal year closed out with other record breaking figures as well.  Prizes awarded in 2006 jumped 9 percent over the previous year, to $1.3 billion.  Retailer commissions also increased, by 8.3 percent, to $165 million.

By statute, 100 percent of the Lottery’s profits go to the state School Aid Fund. Since its inception 34 years ago, the Lottery has contributed over $13 billion to public education in Michigan.

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