ROSEVILLE, MN (KELO AM) - In response to the $1.4 billion estimated Powerball® jackpot, the Minnesota Lottery has purchased radio airtime to remind players that they should play responsibly.
In addition to radio spots, the Lottery will also be communicating this message through social media, its website and electronic billboards.
“Playing responsibly is such an important message that we want to be sure that it reaches our players,” said the Lottery's communications manager Debbie Hoffmann.
This is the message that will air: “The current Powerball jackpot has reached record-breaking levels. While this is exciting, the Minnesota Lottery encourages players to play responsibly. Players should never spend more than they can afford on any lottery ticket. Please remember, it's just a game.”
Sales in Minnesota for the Saturday, Jan. 9 drawing topped $13.1 million, breaking the previous record of $10.8 million, set on Nov. 28, 2012 for a $587 million jackpot. Saturday’s drawing produced 263,866 winning tickets in Minnesota, totaling $1.8 million in prizes, including one worth $150,000 and 10 worth $50,000.
The Jan. 13 Powerball jackpot is currently estimated at $1.4 billion, but that estimate will likely grow. The estimated cash option is $868 million.
The Powerball jackpot has been growing since Nov. 7, 2015. During the jackpot run, $30 million in sales has resulted in $6.7 million for Minnesota’s General Fund and $5.4 million to benefit Minnesota’s environment. Minnesota players have won more than $3.7 million since the jackpot run began.