Delinquent Taxes to Be Taken From Lottery Winnings

The House of Representatives on Wednesday unanimously passed legislation sponsored by Rep. David Kiner (D-Enfield) that requires the state’s lottery agency to deduct any delinquent taxes and penalties before distributing a lottery prize of $5,000 or more to a winner.  
 
“There is currently about $400 million in tax delinquencies eligible for collection. This law will serve as an avenue for the state to gain revenue in these tough times,” said Kiner, who on Wednesday became the first freshman legislator this year to successfully champion a bill in the House Chamber.   
 
“This bill (HB 6270) is a natural extension of a current state statute that requires the Connecticut Lottery Corp. to check winning tickets valued at $5,000 or more against a list of individuals delinquent on child support payments,” Kiner said.
 
The lottery agency’s child-support collection program, begun in 2004, has brought in about $1.5 million in delinquent payments.
 
The legislation now goes to the Senate, where it is expected to win approval.