Stay Alert: DeSantis Considers Citizenship Proof for Lottery Ticket Purchases

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has hinted at the possibility that, in the near future, residents may need to prove their legal status to purchase regulated items like lottery tickets or alcoholic beverages. "Stay alert," he warned during a news conference held in southwest Broward County, where he outlined new cooperative measures between state agencies and federal immigration authorities, as reported by The Palm Beach Post.

DeSantis disclosed that his administration is expanding its immigration collaboration through the 287(g) program, which allows state and local agencies to work alongside Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to identify and detain undocumented immigrants. Nearly a hundred law enforcement bodies in Florida are currently involved in this program, but the governor emphasized that the initiative will extend beyond law enforcement agencies.

This expanded plan now encompasses other state entities such as the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, the Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco, the Florida Gaming Control Commission, and the Florida Lottery itself. According to DeSantis, these agencies operate in "target-rich environments" for immigration surveillance, and their agents could be "deputized" to work in unison with ICE and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

"During their routine inspection and investigation duties, special agents often encounter individuals who may be in our country illegally," the governor stated. "Therefore, we believe empowering these officers in regulatory spaces will provide another resource for these immigration enforcement efforts."

Will Proof of Citizenship Be Required for Consumers?

When asked whether consumers will need to show proof of citizenship or legal residency to buy lottery tickets or items like beer, DeSantis did not provide a definitive answer. "I think it's yet to be determined exactly how that will be implemented," he responded. "These officials are involved in areas where they can likely add value to what ICE and DHS are doing. So just stay tuned and see how it unfolds."

His comments came during an event organized by federal authorities to highlight the recent arrest of over 1,100 individuals labeled as "criminal aliens." Of that number, 378 already had final deportation orders issued by immigration courts, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

Currently, undocumented immigrants are not explicitly prohibited from buying or claiming lottery prizes in Florida or other states. Lottery agencies typically do not inquire about the immigration status of those claiming a prize. However, to claim significant winnings, such as in lotteries or casinos, a valid official ID, like a driver's license, passport, social security number, or state-accepted form of ID, is required.

For tax purposes, non-citizens or those lacking valid documentation face a federal withholding rate of 30%, higher than the 24% applied to U.S. citizens, in addition to potential state taxes.

Nonetheless, DeSantis's recent statements could signal a shift in current practices by introducing potential immigration checks in areas previously exempt from such controls.