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HB 1799

Virginia Lottery; disclosure of identity of winners.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Scott Wyatt

Virginia law now permits disclosure of lottery winners' identities to the public, effective July 1, 2025, eliminating previous anonymity protections for prize recipients.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0076)
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Bill Summary · HB 1799

Legislative bill overview

HB 1799 modifies Virginia's lottery winner privacy laws to allow the disclosure of lottery winners' identities, reversing or amending previous confidentiality protections. The bill was approved by the Governor and becomes effective July 1, 2025. This represents a significant shift in how Virginia handles public information about individuals who win lottery prizes.

Why is this important

Lottery winner identity disclosure has real consequences for winners' safety, financial security, and personal privacy. Making names public can expose winners to solicitation, fraud, theft, and unwanted contact from family members or strangers. Conversely, transparency advocates argue public disclosure serves accountability and prevents corruption. This change affects thousands of Virginians who play the lottery and could influence their willingness to participate.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy and security concerns: Winners may face increased risk of theft, harassment, scams, or kidnapping once their identities and winnings become public record
  • Lottery participation impact: Some players may avoid playing or claim prizes under business entities if their privacy is eliminated, potentially reducing state lottery revenue
  • Transparency versus individual rights: Debate over whether public accountability interests outweigh citizens' reasonable expectation of privacy when playing games of chance

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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