It was a bit of annoyance for lottery players but the B.C. Lottery Corporation has since modified its initial rule change.
The lottery corporation several weeks ago in the early days of COVID-19 outbreak stopped allowing people to purchase advance draws for multiple games of Keno or lotteries such as Lotto Max, prompting complaints the restriction forced players to head to a store more often, which wasn’t exactly in keeping with the recommendations regarding staying at home and social distancing.
However, since then BCLC has modified its advance buy options.
BCLC told the Delta Optimist that, initially, the Advance Buy on March 25, 2020 was changed out of an abundance of caution to prevent players from spending their money on future lottery draws, should they be impacted due to the evolving COVID-19 pandemic.
“As a result of feedback that the changes were prompting players to leave their homes more frequently, and in support of physical-distancing directions from the Provincial Health Officer, BCLC re-introduced some Advance Buy options on April 20, 2020,” the lottery corporation explained.
Players can now purchase Lotto Max, Lotto 6/49, BC/49 and Daily Grand lottery games at lottery retail locations for up to eight consecutive draws (four weeks) in advance, stated BCLC, while Keno players can purchase a maximum of 20 draws in a single purchase, whether on PlayNow.com or at a lottery retail location.
Meanwhile, BC 50/50 players can continue to purchase a maximum of four draws.
“All of the Advance Buy modifications are temporary, and lottery players can also continue to purchase tickets on PlayNow.com, where a lottery subscription feature is available,” BCLC added.
As far as when casinos could re-open and what new safety measures will be in place, BCLC said it continues to follow the direction and guidance of provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry.
“With a shared commitment to the health and wellbeing of players, employees and communities, and when the provincial health officer determines the time is right, BCLC looks forward to working collaboratively on the casino industry’s re-opening plans, prioritizing enhanced sanitation and physical-distancing measures to reduce player density.”
BCLC notes that for more information about any operational changes as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, visit http:// https://corporate.bclc.com/alerts/covid-19.html
