Connecticut Prepares for iLottery Launch in Two Weeks

The Connecticut Lottery Corporation (CLC) is on the verge of launching its online lottery platform, known as iLottery, within the next two weeks. Art Mongillo, CLC's public affairs manager, confirmed the anticipated launch timeline to PlayUSA, indicating that International Game Technology (IGT), the lottery’s vendor, is finalizing the necessary regulatory requirements. The introduction of iLottery in Connecticut marks the culmination of a prolonged process, positioning the state to become the 32nd in the U.S. to offer some form of online lottery sales.

 

• Launch Timeline: The Connecticut Lottery Corporation anticipates launching its iLottery platform within the next two weeks, pending final regulatory approvals by vendor International Game Technology (IGT).
• National Context: With the launch, Connecticut will become the 32nd state to offer some form of online lottery sales, joining a growing trend of digital lottery platforms across the United States.
• Vendor Delays: Despite initial plans for an earlier launch, the deployment of the iLottery platform by IGT has faced delays due to the complexities of meeting regulatory requirements and ensuring seamless integration with existing systems.

 

The path to online lottery sales in Connecticut has been lengthy, reflecting broader national trends towards digital and in-person lottery sales. Nationwide, 45 states and Washington D.C. operate lotteries. Of these, 31 offer online ticket sales, divided into three categories: twelve states with direct online sales through state-run lotteries, sixteen states using courier services like Jackpocket, and three states adopting hybrid models with both state-run lotteries and courier services. Connecticut's move to join the digital lottery space began in 2021 when state lawmakers legalized online lottery sales. This legislation was part of a broader initiative that also legalized online casinos, sports betting, fantasy sports contests, and keno.

In the same year, the CLC contracted IGT as its primary technology provider under a long-term agreement. Despite an initial projection for an earlier launch, regulatory compliance and technical execution delayed the rollout. IGT, which signed an eight-year contract in May 2023 to manage the state’s iLottery and online keno games, faced challenges that prolonged the timeline. Art Mongillo, addressing the delays, noted the complexities involved in meeting regulatory standards and ensuring a flawless execution. “It's a lot easier to say it than to execute,” Mongillo told Inside Investigator. “All these steps take a lot of time, especially if we want to make sure that we meet regulatory requirements, and everything comes out accurately the first time.”

IGT (NYSE: IGT), a London-based firm, is a leading name in the global lottery industry. At the time of its contract with the CLC, IGT was the primary technology provider for 25 U.S. lotteries and eight of the world's ten largest lotteries. The company offers extensive services, including sales management, the deployment of lottery terminals, promotional activities, sponsorship acquisitions, and the overall management of retail lottery technology. The firm’s deep involvement in the industry underscores the scale and complexity of launching a new online platform, particularly one that needs to adhere to stringent regulatory standards and integrate seamlessly with existing systems.

 

“It's a lot easier to say it than to execute. All these steps take a lot of time, especially if we want to make sure that we meet regulatory requirements, and everything comes out accurately the first time.”

 

The Future Potential

As Connecticut approaches the launch of its iLottery, the state aims to enhance accessibility and convenience for lottery players. The forthcoming iLottery platform is expected to modernize the lottery experience, aligning Connecticut with the growing trend of digital lottery participation across the nation. This step forward is not just a technological upgrade but a significant move to ensure the lottery's relevance in an increasingly digital age. The imminent launch promises to provide Connecticut residents with a more convenient and accessible way to participate in lottery games, potentially increasing engagement and revenue for the state’s lottery system.