More than $32 Billion Contributed to Education
The Florida Lottery today celebrates its 30th year in operation, marking three decades of excitement, achievement and contributions to education.
Since opening its doors in 1988, the Lottery has contributed more than $32 billion to education, including more than $1 billion annually for each of the past 15 consecutive fiscal years. The Lottery is also the primary funding source for the Bright Futures Scholarship Program, which has enabled more than 775,000 students to attend college since the program’s inception in 1997.
“The Florida Lottery’s history of record sales has allowed us to maximize our contributions to education, creating winning moments for countless Florida families and students over the past 30 years,” said Secretary Jim Poppell. “I want to thank our loyal players, hardworking retailers and dedicated staff for their unwavering commitment to education. As we look ahead, the Lottery will continue to offer exciting and innovative games to our players, providing greater chances to win and more funding for education.”
Since the Lottery made its first contribution to the Educational Enhancement Trust Fund in the amount of $46.26 million in February 1988, the benefit of Lottery revenues have continued to be felt across every level of Florida’s 67 counties. Since the Lottery’s inception, Florida’s public schools have received more than $14.6 billion. State colleges and universities have also benefitted, receiving a combined total of more than $7.9 billion.
Profits from all Lottery games are transferred to the Educational Enhancement Trust Fund. These funds are appropriated by the Florida Legislature and are administered by the Florida Department of Education.
