With holiday gift-buying season fully underway, the Iowa Lottery is urging Iowans to keep lottery tickets out of children’s stockings and stick to age-appropriate presents this season. Iowa law requires players to be at least 21 to purchase lottery tickets. While tickets are a popular gift this time of year, the lottery says early exposure to gambling, even via well-intended gifts, can significantly increase an individual’s risk of gambling problems later in life. The Iowa Lottery is participating in the 2025 Gift Responsibly Campaign, which is an international initiative led by the National Council on Problem Gambling. The campaign is supported by dozens of state lotteries and associated organizations across North America and reinforces the message that lottery tickets should only be given to adults. Outside of the holiday season, the lottery promotes responsible play year-round through age-verification requirements, retailer training, and online tools. For tips on healthy play, visit ialottery.com. Iowans seeking help for gambling concerns can find 24/7 support at YourLifeIowa.org/gambling or by calling 1-800-BETS-OFF.
