The lottery for the small eastern American state of Rhode Island is reportedly hoping to counter a recent coronavirus-related downturn in revenues by launching a new service that allows aficionados to enjoy a range of games including keno from the comfort of their own homes.

According to a Wednesday report from The Providence Journal newspaper, the new iLottery innovation from the Rhode Island Lottery offers those in ‘The Ocean State’ the ability to use their home computers and Internet-enabled mobile devices so as to place keno wagers, watch live draws and save their favorite flutters for future play.

Instant entertainment:

The newspaper reported that fans of scratchcards can also utilize the fresh service to enjoy ‘eInstant’ games including Emoti Collect, Multiply the Cash, Pink Diamond Crossword and Texas Hold‘Em. The Rhode Island Lottery purportedly detailed that these cards cost between $1 and $20 and feature payouts and play styles that are similar to those sold at retail locations.

Drawing deficit:

The Providence Journal reported that the state of Rhode Island is facing an estimated budget shortfall of about $800 million for the fiscal year that is set to start in July while its lottery is said to be blaming the coronavirus pandemic for a drop in takings that is expected to reach $130 million.

Customer care:

Gerald Aubin, Director for the Rhode Island Lottery, reportedly told the newspaper that online players must be at least 18 years of age, have passed through a verification process and be physically located within the state to enjoy any of these new games. He furthermore purportedly explained that prizes worth less than $600 will be automatically deposited into a customer’s bank account while punters are to be required to visit the lottery’s headquarters in the Providence suburb of Cranston to collect more lucrative rewards.

Aubin reportedly stated…

“We’re pleased to offer the ability for players to buy and play keno and eInstants from their computers or mobile devices. This will be a great convenience for players and will generate additional revenues for our state.”