Powerball has always followed the same schedule since the game was launched in 1992, with draws taking place every Wednesday and Saturday. However, the Multi-State Lottery Association (MUSL) which oversees the running of the game, has announced that a Monday draw will be introduced, starting from 23rd August.
The move is designed to drive up excitement even more, giving fans of the game an extra opportunity every week to play. It could lead to the jackpot rising even more quickly. No other changes are planned, so the cost of entry will stay the same and so will all the rules.
The time of the Monday draw will be 10:59pm Eastern Time, in line with what already happens on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
“Our players really enjoy Powerball, and we are pleased to offer them the option of a third weekly drawing," Mississippi Lottery Corporation (MLC) President Tom Shaheen said in a press release.
“By having an additional draw night, there is a greater opportunity for faster-growing jackpots and more cash winnings.”
Powerball Expansion Delayed
The MUSL has also announced that Powerball will not be offered internationally until at least 2022, following recent reports that the game could soon become available in countries other than the United States, such as the UK or Australia.
"International sales of Powerball have been delayed," said the MUSL in a statement issued to its members. "The issues of offering this game outside the United States are complex. There is no defined timeline for a decision, however, any decision will ultimately be determined by a vote of all 38 members of the Powerball Product Group."
The possible expansion had prompted Idaho lawmakers to prepare to stop Powerball from being played in the state. There are currently rules against Idahoans being able to take part in games outside of the US and Canada.
Now that Powerball will remain just in the US, at least for now, Idaho will continue to sell tickets. Jeff Anderson, Idaho Lottery Director, is delighted that his players will not be denied the chance to play.
"Freedom to play Powerball is restored," said Anderson. “This is a game that Idahoans have enjoyed for three decades. The voters of Idaho created the Lottery in 1989 after an initiative was placed on the ballot by the Idaho Legislature which received an affirmative vote of the people in the 1988 general election. Shortly thereafter, Idaho was one of the 13 original states that created Powerball in February 1992.
“We believe that international sales of Powerball are inevitable and Idaho law will have to be changed in 2022 for players to remain able to enjoy the world's most popular lottery game. We will continue to responsibly work with the Idaho Legislature, our players, and our retailers to ensure Idahoans have the freedom to enjoy Powerball in Idaho."