LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) – The Arkansas Senate has approved a measure that would allow some lottery winners to keep their identities secret for two years.The Senate on Wednesday approved by a 25-6 vote a bill that would allow lottery
winners who win more than $500,000 to request that state not release their
identities. The proposal would not apply to elected officials and their close
relatives. The identities would become public records after two years under the
measure.
Among those voting in favor of the measure representing North Central Arkansas were Senators Scott Flippo of Bull Shoals and Breanne Davis of Russellville. Senator Missy Irvin of Mountain View was among the six voting against the bill.
The proposal now heads to the House, which a day earlier approved a similar
measure. Supporters have said the move is needed to ensure the safety of lottery
winners. Opponents have said keeping the information secret would prevent the
public from knowing if there is misconduct in the lottery program.
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