The gaming technology group, IGT Global Solutions Corporation, will continue to provide its solutions and services in the lottery sector. As part of the deal, it will maintain 1,100 jobs in the state.
IGT will form a joint venture with Bally’s Corporation, becoming the exclusive supplier of video lottery terminals to the Lottery from January 2023.
IGT will replace Rhode Island Lottery’s draw-based lottery central system with its Aurora product and related terminals and equipment this year. In 2025, the video lottery central system will be replaced, and the ilottery system will be upgraded in 2023 to offer enhanced analytics.
The group plans to replace all central systems with the latest technology between 2033 and 2035. It will also remain the exclusive printer and supplier of instant tickets to the Lottery.
Mark Furcolo, Rhode Island Lottery director, expressed excitement for the continued success and implementation of advanced lottery systems and solutions.
In June 2021, the governor signed legislation to authorize the lottery’s extension, and IGT agreed to maintain jobs, contribute millions of dollars to the state and invest $155m in Rhode Island through 2043.
Jay Gendron, IGT’s chief operating officer of global lottery, emphasized their commitment to delivering exceptional gaming experiences and supporting Rhode Island’s revenue growth.
In the 2020 fiscal year, the Rhode Island Lottery transferred $293.9m to the state’s General Fund. Due to the pandemic, in 2019, the number was nearly $400m. The upfront payment to the state will increase, and funding for problem gambling schemes will be increased as well.