Lottery aficionados in Mississippi now have the chance to win even more lucrative cash prizes courtesy of the southern American state’s launch of access to the multi-jurisdictional PowerBall and Mega Millions games.

The Mississippi Lottery Corporation used an official January 31 press release to detail that players across ‘The Magnolia State’ can enjoy access to the bi-weekly games by purchasing tickets via the Mississippi Lottery at some 1,500 retail locations situated in communities from Corinth to Biloxi.

Opening acquisition:

Mississippi State Senator Philip Moran led the campaign to bring the two games to the Mississippi Lottery and he celebrated by making the ceremonial first purchase of Powerball and Mega Millions tickets at a Keith’s Superstore outlet in the Gulfport suburb of Pass Christian on January 30. The Republican was said to have been very happy that Mississippi had become the 48th American jurisdiction to offer the games, which regularly advertise minimum jackpots of $40 million.

Positive reception:

Tom Shaheen, President for the Mississippi Lottery Corporation, used the press release to explain that draws for Mega Millions contests take place Tuesday and Friday evenings while associated PowerBall dips are held on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10pm.

Read a statement from Shaheen…

“Yesterday was another incredible day for Mississippi. PowerBall and Mega Millions combined sales were $516,986. This is slightly over double of what we expected for jackpots at the current levels. Mississippians sent a resounding message that they were glad both games are here. We are extremely grateful for our loyal retailer base and players as we moved forward with our mission to raise needed revenues for roads, bridges and education.”