No More Powerball For Boise Players After August

BOISE, ID—After an announcement from Powerball officials of expansion into Australia and Britain, Idaho lawmakers killed a change in current Idaho law allowing the game only in the U.S. and Canada.

Live in Boise? Click here to subscribe to our free breaking news alerts delivered to your inbox and mobile devices. You can also download our free Patch mobile app on Android or iPhone.

Powerball has been in Idaho more than 30 years and generates $28 million annually in the state according to Idaho lottery officials. Idaho schools are expected to lose $14 million each year with the game leaving the state. Idaho was one of the first states to join the Powerball drawing with great excitement from Idaho residents. The lottery now includes 45 states as well as two U.S. territories and Washington D.C.

The House State Affairs Committee voted 10-4 to not change Idaho law to allow foreign countries to participate in Powerball. With the addition of new countries to the drawing, the jackpot size is expected to increase.

Powerball will now officially end August 23 in the state.

Stay connected! Like Boise Patch on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.