Thu Sep 04 03:20:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the provided text:

**News Article:**

**Texas Lottery Operations Shift to State Licensing Agency Amid Controversy**

AUSTIN, Texas – The Texas Lottery is now under the purview of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), marking a significant shift in oversight following a period of controversy. As of September 1st, the Texas Lottery Commission has been abolished, and all lottery and charitable bingo operations have been transferred to the TDLR.

The move comes after state lawmakers considered abolishing the 33-year-old lottery entirely, spurred by investigations and resignations linked to multimillion-dollar jackpot wins in 2023 and 2025. Ultimately, legislators opted to maintain the lottery’s operations, albeit with increased scrutiny.

Senate Bill 3070, signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott this summer, authorized the continuation of the lottery until 2029 while dismantling the Texas Lottery Commission. The law also prohibits online lottery ticket sales.

TDLR Executive Director Courtney Arbour expressed enthusiasm for the new responsibilities, stating, “We appreciate the responsibility the Texas Legislature and the Governor have entrusted to TDLR. Everyone at TDLR welcomes the Lottery and Charitable Bingo team. We’ve already had productive interactions with them and look forward to working together.”

The TDLR assures Texans that the transition will not affect their ability to participate in lottery games. All existing Texas Lottery Commission employees have been transferred to TDLR positions. The agency is also tasked with additional responsibilities mandated by the state legislature, including reviewing existing contracts by December 1, 2025, and establishing a lottery advisory committee.

The Lottery and Charitable Bingo division within TDLR will be housed in the George H.W. Bush Building in Austin.

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