The state House overwhelmingly approved Rep. Pat Outman’s legislation that would better protect Michigan residents who win multi-state lotteries from potential danger or harassment.

The bill would allow winners of multi-state games such as Mega Millions, Powerball and Lucky for Life the option to remain anonymous. Current law permits the names of winners to be disclosed publicly and to the media; however, disclosing such information with the public can cause immediate safety issues and other stressors for the winner and his or her family.

If Outman’s plan is signed into law, Michigan would join Arizona, Delaware, Georgia, Kansas, Maryland, New Jersey, North Dakota, Ohio, South Carolina, Virginia and Texas in allowing multi-state lottery winners to choose to remain anonymous.

“We shouldn’t force Michigan lottery winners to be in a position where they receive unwanted, possibly dangerous attention,” said Outman (R-Six Lakes). “My plan gives them the choice to keep their identities anonymous. A privacy option gives people a sense of security and helps protect them from harassment or a flood of requests for funds, loans or donations.” 

Rep. Outman pointed out that the rise of social media in the last 10 years makes it all too easy to find out personal information about a lottery winner, leaving people vulnerable to scams and solicitation.

“Winning the lottery should be cause for celebration, not distress,” Outman said. “Several other states allow winners to remain anonymous – it’s time for Michigan to allow this option as well.”

Outman’s plan, HB 4048, was referred to the Senate for further consideration.

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