The state of Utah is one of five starts that does not have a state lottery. All forms of gambling are outlawed in Utah and attempts to change the law have failed.
Utah is governed heavily by the principles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The church’s principles oppose gambling and lotteries, referring to them as “spiritually destructive”. Many of the state’s lawmakers are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and therefore have personal oppositions towards a lottery of any kind.
More than 40% of the state’s population are also members, so there is often little push for changing the state’s constitution.
Will Utah Ever Have A State Lottery?
A proposed amendment to be discussed in 2025 would allow counties that border neighboring states with lotteries to have their own, but even that concept faces an uphill climb. Lawmakers who have brought resolution to the table have met tremendous amounts of resistance and many have been complete non-starters.
Even if the amendment makes its way through the Utah State Legislature, it would then be put to a vote in the 2026 General Election.
So, no, it is highly, highly unlikely that Utah will ever have a state lottery.
Utah Lottery Options
For those who do want to play the lottery, neighboring states Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, New Mexico, and Wyoming all offer the lottery. Prize winnings would be subject to different state taxes based on the rules and regulations and prizes would need to be claimed in that state, but there is nothing illegal about playing the lottery in another state.
Utah Lottery Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The States Without A Lottery?
Utah is one of five states without a lottery. Alabama, Alaska, Hawaii, and Nevada are the others.
Why Does Utah Not Have A Lottery?
Many lawmakers and residents are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and that religion’s teachings are very clear about the opposition to gambling of any kind, including the lottery.