Texas Lottery Director Resigns Amidst Jackpot Investigations and Courier Concerns

The head of the Texas Lottery, Ryan Mindell, has resigned. His departure follows multiple investigations into the awarding of lottery jackpots by state authorities. Mindell informed the lottery commission board of his decision on Monday. The agency is currently under scrutiny from Governor Greg Abbott and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton.

Lawmakers have raised concerns about the fairness of lottery prizes and the state's handling of courier companies. These companies purchase and send lottery tickets online for customers. Mindell had been in the position for just over a year.

The state investigations were initiated after two of the largest jackpots in the lottery's history sparked controversy. Both occurred within the past two years. Media outlets and lawmakers questioned the legitimacy of the wins and the role of courier companies. One jackpot, worth $95 million, was won in 2023 after the winners purchased nearly every possible number combination. Another, an $83 million ticket, was purchased at a courier store earlier this year.

The Coalition of Texas Lottery Couriers released a statement distancing itself from Mindell. The statement noted that Mindell had previously denied the agency's regulatory authority over couriers, despite their requests for regulation. The statement also criticized Mindell's decision to ban lottery couriers, which have operated legally in Texas since 2019. The Coalition stated that its members played no role in the bulk buying of tickets that led to the $95 million payout and opposed such purchases.