Utah Lawmaker Proposes Constitutional Amendment to Legalize State Lottery
Representative Kera Birkeland is going to reintroduce legislation aimed at legalizing lottery gaming in Utah, potentially giving state’s residents the opportunity to vote on the issue in the 2026 general election.
Addressing the Outflow of Money to Neighboring States
Birkeland intends to propose a constitutional amendment during the 2025 Utah State Legislature session. If the amendment passes, it would be placed on the 2026 ballot, allowing voters to decide whether to legalize a state lottery.
Birkeland’s idea is driven by the growing number of Utahns who travel to neighboring states to purchase lottery tickets. She estimates that residents spend at least $200 million annually on lottery tickets in states like Arizona, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico.
In addition to the state lottery, Birkeland’s legislation includes a provision to legalize charity raffles, which, while common in Utah, are currently illegal.
Legislative Challenges and Public Support
Despite her optimism, Birkeland acknowledges the significant challenges her proposal faces. When she first introduced the idea last year, it struggled to gain traction in the Utah State Legislature.
While some support was shown by House leadership, Senate leaders and Governor Spencer Cox raised concerns, and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has historically opposed all forms of gambling, including lotteries.
However, Birkeland remains hopeful, citing unexpected public support following her initial proposal. She believes that many Utah residents are in favor of legalizing a state lottery.
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