LANSING, November 28, 2011 – With a contribution of $727.3 million in Fiscal Year 2011, the Michigan Lottery has surpassed $16 billion in its support of public education since its inception in 1972.

“I am proud to report this remarkable achievement. Lottery players and retailers throughout the state have clearly been outstanding in their support of education,” said Lottery Commissioner Scott Bowen.

The FY 2011 contribution to the fund represents 31.08 percent of the Lottery’s 2011 sales, as compared to the FY 2010 contribution of $701.3 million, or 29.73 percent of sales.

Bowen also noted that for the eighth consecutive year, the Lottery paid over $1 billion in prizes, with $1.34 billion going to lucky players in FY 2011. For the seventh consecutive year, the Lottery’s sales topped $2 billion, with the FY 2011 total at $2.34 billion.

Retailer commissions were $168.4 million, making FY 2011 the seventh consecutive year commissions exceeded $150 million.

For additional information, please visit the Lottery’s Web site at http://www.michiganlottery.com.

“The Michigan Lottery. All across the state good things happen.”

# # #