As the Texas Lottery Commission faces growing scrutiny over allegations of misconduct, one of the five appointed members of the commission has resigned.
A spokesman for the Texas Lottery Commission confirmed to Texas Scorecard on Sunday that former commissioner Clark Smith Smith submitted his resignation on Friday, February 21.
Smith’s resignation comes as the Texas Lottery Commission has been embroiled in controversy following reports detailing ethical concerns, conflicts of interest, and questionable practices within the agency.
Recently, the commission has faced allegations of improper ties between lottery officials and third-party online couriers.
Smith, a partner at the Vela Wood law firm, previously served as general counsel to the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission. He was appointed to the commission by Gov. Greg Abbott in November 2023 and had served for just over a year before stepping down.
The governor’s office has yet to announce a replacement for Smith, but the appointment process will require confirmation by the Texas Senate.
The resignation comes just ahead of a key hearing in the Texas Senate on legislation that could impact the future of online lottery sales.
On Monday, the Senate Committee on State Affairs is set to consider Senate Bill 28, filed by State Sen. Bob Hall (R-Edgewood), which seeks to ban the sale of lottery tickets through online courier services. The bill has drawn the attention of lawmakers concerned about the potential for fraud and predatory practices associated with third-party lottery ticket sales.
Hall’s legislation has been deemed a priority by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who just last week visited an illicit lottery ticket printing warehouse in Austin after they won an $83 million jackpot.
The Lottery Commission is also currently under sunset review this year, bringing increased scrutiny from members of both chambers.
As of publishing, Smith did not comment on his departure from the Commission.
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