Unlike a sweepstakes, a lottery is a promotional device by which items of value (prizes) are awarded to members of the public by chance—but some form of payment is required to participate. Lotteries are illegal, except when conducted by states and certain exempt charitable organizations. If you believe you have received a solicitation characterized as a sweepstakes that is in fact an illegal lottery, you should contact your local Post Office or state Attorney General’s consumer protection office.
In Alabama, lotteries are generally illegal under state law. The Alabama Constitution prohibits lotteries and games of chance. However, there are exceptions for state-run lotteries, such as the one established by the Alabama Lottery Act, and for certain charitable organizations that are permitted to conduct gaming activities under specific circumstances. These charitable organizations must comply with strict regulations and obtain the necessary licenses to operate legally. If an individual in Alabama encounters what appears to be an illegal lottery disguised as a sweepstakes, they are encouraged to report it to the local Post Office or the Consumer Protection Section of the Alabama Attorney General's Office. The Attorney General's Office is responsible for enforcing consumer protection laws and can take action against illegal gambling operations.