A Shot at $400,000

State announces lottery for vaccinated citizens 

By Kathy Knotts 

In efforts to further entice us to get our vaccinations against COVID-19, Governor Larry Hogan announced last week a $2 million promotion that could make getting the shot just a little less painful. 

Hogan, along with the Maryland Lottery and the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) announced the launch of a statewide lottery that will award 40 vaccinated residents $40,000 each. A daily random drawing will be held now through July 3. On the Fourth of July officials will draw a name for a grand prize of $400,000. 

As part of an unprecedented partnership, the Lottery will work in close collaboration with MDH on the $2 Million VaxCash Promotion. Each Maryland resident age 18 or older who has been vaccinated in Maryland at any time will be randomly assigned a number in a secure system maintained by MDH, which serves as the custodian of Maryland’s vaccination records. Separately, the Lottery will use a random number generator to select a winning number each day from the total number of people who have been vaccinated.  

“Getting more people vaccinated is good for Maryland, and this is a promotion the Lottery is especially proud to be part of,” said Maryland Lottery and Gaming Director Gordon Medenica. “And most importantly, putting COVID-19 in the rearview mirror is great for Maryland’s businesses. We know everyone is eager for a fun-filled summer where the pandemic is a distant memory.” 

MDH will notify the winners, who must provide written consent of their willingness to accept the prize. Winners will be permitted to remain anonymous, but are encouraged to share their stories. 

“I am beyond proud of every single vaccinated Marylander who has stepped up to protect themselves and keep Maryland safe and healthy.” said MDH Secretary Dennis R. Schrader. “We need every eligible Marylander vaccinated, and this lottery is a further incentive to get a life-saving vaccination to ensure we leave no arm behind in our fight to put this pandemic behind us.” 

Prizes will be paid directly from the Lottery’s marketing budget.  

“Go out and get vaccinated to protect yourself, your family, your friends, and your fellow Marylanders,” said Hogan. “And if you needed one more good reason, then go out and get vaccinated for your chance to win a share of this $2 million. So, remember Maryland—get your shot for a shot to win.” 

For more information, go to mdlottery.com.