Powers and Duties of the Government Lottery Office Board: Case of Appointing Private Legal Entities as Lottery Distributors

Abstract

This research article aims to examine the powers and duties of the Government Lottery Office (GLO) Board in appointing private legal entities as lottery distributors. The study highlights that several private entities cannot legally serve as distributors on online platforms.

The findings reveal that Section 13 (7) of the Government Lottery Office Act B.E. 2517 (1974) empowers the GLO Board to allocate lottery tickets to distributors and determine distribution methods. However, the allocation process does not explicitly authorize private legal entities to act as distributors. As a result, these entities are compelled to purchase tickets from small-scale distributors at inflated prices, leading to overpricing and consumer exploitation. Moreover, the absence of explicit provisions for online lottery sales has prevented private entities from operating legally on online platforms.

The researcher recommends that the GLO Board clearly define the qualifications for private legal entities to become authorized distributors, increase the allocation quota for these entities, and implement a licensing system for lottery distributors. Additionally, it is suggested that the GLO Board establish clear regulations for online lottery distribution, similar to practices in the United States, the Commonwealth of Australia, and the United Kingdom. These countries promote free trade in lottery sales by requiring all vendors to hold licenses, thereby eliminating issues related to multi-tiered ticket reselling and overpricing.