Lottery price increase affects AR lottery

LITTLE ROCK, AR -- It now costs two dollars to play the powerball, producing a positive and not so positive affect for the Arkansas lottery. Tickets used to cost one buck.

"I thought that was a little too much and since then I haven't bought a ticket yet," said Deborah Tyler, who plays the lottery.

Leaders say ticket sales are down because of the price increase, but they are making more money.

"Our sales are actually up by 20 percent," said interim director Julie Baldridge.

The change went into effect January 15th, starting the jackpot at $40 million dollars and increasing by $10 million after every drawing. Powerball managers say they made the switch to have a higher jackpot and improve the chances of getting a winner.

Leaders say the ultimate goal is to make money, to give money.

"Our only mission for the lottery is to maximize scholarship dollars," said Baldridge.