Anonymity for lottery winners?
A New Hampshire woman who won the recent $560 million Powerball game that is played in several states, including New Hampshire, has filed a lawsuit in an effort to remain anonymous. In New Hampshire, the names of lottery winners are considered public record, which means they’re subject to right-to-know laws. Read more about this issue.
"Should NH pass a law that keeps the names of lottery winners private?"
Discussion held on Citizens Count NH website and Facebook page February 7, 2018
Yes: 165 citizens were in favor of allowing lottery winners to remain anonymous.
- “Yes. There is no reason why, if someone wins millions of dollars, they should be required to give their names to the public.”
- “Our money situation is our private business before we win the lottery and should remain so after if that is what we choose.”
- “Yes, this would help prevent people from trying to scam them … Criminals may think they update electronics, purchase jewelry, etc., [and] look up and target their homes. These people deserve a right to privacy. The IRS will still get their share.”
No: 32 citizens were opposed to allowing lottery winners to remain anonymous.
- “No … Read the damn rules! If you want to remain anonymous, get a lawyer and set up a trust.”
- “No. You play by the rules. If you don't like the rules, don't play. Don't give law makers the chance to rig the games.”
- “There is already a way to stay anonymous. No … Now focus on real problems.”
Other: 3 citizens addressed their comments to related questions and issues.
These included:
- Interstate issues: “When any state is involved with joint lottery they all should go by the same rules. This should have been agreed upon joining.”
- Alternative policies: “Yes and no. I believe in sealed records in case the fact you won the lotto needs to be brought out in court.”
*Editor selection of actual participant quotes.