Christopher Taffe

The Commission received an update on Lottery sales, highlighting performance figures for December and the fiscal year-to-date, including the impact of Powerball jackpots. Presentations were made regarding the upcoming February instant ticket launch, point-of-sale materials, and a record-breaking Keno promotion. A summary was provided of the Celtics Banner 18 Challenge event and associated media coverage. The Commission approved an increase in the maximum obligation for a contract for media buying services and affirmed the denial of a prize claim appeal based on expiration of the claim period.

The meeting included an Executive Director's report focusing on a lottery sales update for March, highlighting comparisons of unadjusted sales, net profit, and prize payouts between the current and previous year. Performance figures for the first nine months of the 2026 fiscal year were also reviewed. The presentation covered the upcoming launch of several new instant ticket games scheduled for May 12, including details on price points, top prizes, and quantities. Additionally, the commission noted five Boston/New England Regional Emmy Award nominations received for promotional and creative content.

The Commission authorized an increase in the maximum obligation for contracts regarding the purchase of acrylic dispensers and displays, approved a contract extension for janitorial services, and authorized an amendment to regulations to allow for the interchangeable use of the terms instant ticket and scratch ticket. Additionally, the Commission ratified the findings and recommendation of the hearing officer regarding the appeal of a denied lottery claim.

The Commission received reports on Lottery sales figures, including fiscal year-to-date net profit and prize payout percentages. A presentation was provided regarding the upcoming launch of six new instant tickets, supported by a new marketing campaign featuring a nature documentary theme. The Commission reviewed efforts taken during Problem Gambling Awareness Month. Formal actions included the approval of an increased expenditure for parts and repair services for lottery terminals, authorization for the Executive Director to amend regulations related to online lottery implementation, and the approval of additional funding for the procurement of hybrid vehicles for the lottery fleet.

The meeting included an executive director's report providing a comprehensive update on lottery sales for the month of May and year-to-date performance for fiscal year 2026. The discussion highlighted year-over-year changes in net profit, prize payout percentages, and variations in specific game sales such as Instant Tickets, Powerball, Keno, and Mega Millions. Additionally, the commission reviewed the marketing and operational plans for the upcoming MA 250 commemorative ticket launch, including details on ticket prize structures, second-chance drawings, point-of-sale materials, and promotional ticket giveaways.