North Dakota’s Digital Pull Tabs: Jackpot or Do We Want More?

North Dakota’s digital pull tabs are ringing up quite the revenue! Since their introduction in 2018, these modern machines have become a favorite pastime for many residents. In fact, during the fiscal year ending June 30, 2018, e-tabs generated nearly $2 billion in total proceeds from cash and replayed winnings. This bonanza resulted in a whopping $205 million going to charitable organizations, with over $72 million specifically earmarked for philanthropic purposes. By the end of the fiscal year 2023, participants had poured more than $687 million into e-tabs alone!

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But it doesn’t stop there. Throw in the lottery, paper tabs, blackjack, bingo, and traditional casinos, and it’s clear that North Dakotans have a robust enthusiasm for gaming.

Just this morning, our local radio station was buzzing with the question: “When will we get scratchers?” Montana, our neighbor to the west, already enjoys scratch tickets along with their lottery and digital machines. According to the Montana Lottery, scratch ticket sales have brought in just over $19 million. Meanwhile, Minnesota’s Lottery raked in a staggering $545.7 million from scratch tickets, and South Dakota reported over $5 million in scratch ticket revenue.

These numbers, while perhaps not astronomical, are certainly significant. So, should North Dakota jump on the scratch ticket bandwagon? It’s a question worth pondering.

I would love to hear your thoughts! Please share your opinion on our social media pages. Let’s keep the conversation rolling—after all, who knows what exciting gaming opportunities might be just around the corner?