A Texas resident who secured a $83.5 million lottery jackpot may not receive her prize due to an ongoing investigation into the legality of the app she utilized. This situation has sparked significant debate over the legitimacy of lottery courier services in the state. The unidentified winner purchased her ticket through Jackpocket, an application that facilitates the buying of lottery tickets on behalf of customers for a fee. State lawmakers are scrutinizing such services, arguing they violate current Texas laws.

The controversy surrounding this case began when the woman used Jackpocket to buy $20 worth of Texas Lotto tickets for the February 17 drawing. Despite the service claiming compliance with the Texas Lottery Commission (TLC) since 2019, the TLC maintains that these courier services operate illegally within the state. In response to this discrepancy, Governor Greg Abbott instructed the Texas Rangers to investigate both this win and another $95 million jackpot from 2023, ensuring all rules were followed.

Jackpocket users argue their method is fair, especially compared to groups spending millions to cover nearly every number combination. The mystery woman insists her participation was legitimate, paying merely $20 for her chance at the jackpot. Her attorney, Randy Howry, strongly defends her right to claim the prize, stating that they adhered to all regulations throughout the process.

This legal battle comes amidst efforts by Texas lawmakers to prohibit courier services like Jackpocket. The Texas Senate already passed legislation aimed at banning these services, now awaiting approval from the Texas House. Meanwhile, the TLC remains undecided about awarding the prize until investigations conclude, leaving the winner without her earnings despite presenting her winning ticket on March 18.

As the investigation continues, questions arise regarding fairness and public trust in the Texas lottery system. Legal experts and potential players alike await clarification on whether adherence to rules will ensure rightful compensation for winners using approved methods. The outcome of this case could significantly influence future regulations and consumer confidence in participating via third-party apps.