961 CMR, § 2.31

Current through Register 1531, September 27, 2024

Section 2.31 - Instant Game Rules

(1)Definitions.

(a) "Play Symbol(s)" means the numbers or symbols printed under each of the rub-off play spots. Each Play Symbol must have a matching caption printed below the symbol. Each caption must correspond with and verify the symbol.

(b) "Validation Number" means the unique multi-digit number found underneath the "Void If Removed" spot.

(c) "Bar Code" means the set of vertical lines on the front or back of each ticket representing that ticket's unique Game Number, Validation Number and Book Number.

(d) "UPC Code" means the Universal Product Code and it's corresponding bar code symbol. It's limited purpose is to identify a product of the Massachusetts State Lottery Commission.

(2) The prize winner must submit a winning Lottery ticket to be eligible to claim a prize. To be a valid instant winning ticket entitled to a prize, the following conditions must be met:

(a) The on-line system must indicate that the ticket is a winner.

(b) One and only one number or symbol must appear in each Play Symbol designated area.

(c) Each Play Symbol must be legible; if the number appears both as a numeral and spelled or abbreviated as a word, both must agree.

(d) The Validation Number must correspond, using the Commission's validation records, to the Play Symbols.

(e) The number on the back of the ticket must be present and legible and it must correspond, using the Commission's validation records to any check code or validation number on the ticket.

(f) The ticket must pass all other security checks provided by the Commission.

(3) The ticket shall be void and not entitled to a prize under any one or more of the following conditions:

(a) The on-line system indicates that the ticket is not a winner.

(b) The Validation Number is partially or fully removed or exposed before the ticket is validated by the Commission or Sales Agent.

(c) More than one Play Symbol appears under any Play Symbol designated area.

(d) No Play Symbol appears in any Play Symbol designated area, unless the ticket specifically provides for this occurrence.

(e) The Validation Number or Bar Code are not present or are only partially present.

(f) The ticket is defective or mutilated or altered or tampered with in any manner.

(g) Any number or symbol is partially or wholly illegible.

(h) The ticket is counterfeit.

(i) The book or individual ticket is stolen or not issued.

(j) The numbers or letters are other than right side up.

(k) A letter or symbol has become obscured in printing or altered in storage or usage and does not correspond with the Commission's validation records.

(l) The ticket is part of a printing or production error or its Validation Number and/or Bar Code does not correspond with the apparent image or lack of image.

(m) An apparent winner is not on the Commission's validation records in the correct pool.

(n) The Play Symbol and its alphabetic characterization are inconsistent.

(o) It fails to meet any requirement contained in the Administrative Bulletin issued by the Director for any particular Instant Game.

The Director shall make the final decision as to whether any ticket is valid or void and such decision shall be final.

(4) In the event that a ticket is declared to be void, the Lottery may at its option replace the ticket or refund the purchase price thereof. This shall be the sole and exclusive remedy of the holder of the ticket.

(5) A person shall be eligible to win only one instant prize per ticket, unless the ticket specifically states otherwise.

(6) No prizes shall be paid based on a lost, stolen or mislaid instant game ticket, unless the Director in his or her discretion decides otherwise.

(7) Specific game rules for each instant game shall be detailed in an Administrative Bulletin issued by the Director.

(8) All instant game tickets entitled to a prize expire one year from the end of that particular game. However, certain winning tickets which are eligible for a run-off type drawing must be claimed prior to the run-off drawing in accordance with the rules set forth in the Administrative Bulletin for that particular game.