Kansas considers legalization of lottery vending machines

The idea, conceived by Rep. Chuck Weber, R-Wichita, is expected to increase funding to mental health services by USD 12M over two years. The funding would go toward crisis stabilization centers, which offer an alternative to jail or hospitalization for someone having a psychotic break, as well as toward mental health clubhouses

"I was trying to think creatively about how we can provide a crucial service without burdening the taxpayer and raising taxes," Weber said. "I saw this as sort of a win-win, something that can be seen as 'voluntary' funding because no one forces anyone to buy a lottery ticket."

Proponents of implementing the vending machines have worked to legalize them for several years, but they have never gotten this close to passage. Sally Lunsford, spokeswoman for the Kansas Lottery, said that allocating the funding toward mental health may help push lawmakers who are on the fence toward voting for the measure.

Opponents have been generally anti-gambling or are concerned that minors might buy tickets. Some worry, as well, that giving people the ability to buy lottery tickets through a machine might be counter-productive for those who struggle with compulsion toward gambling or addiction, which is itself considered a mental health problem.