California Lottery Introduces Mega Millions Daily Draw

The California State Lottery Commission announced this week that, beginning in October 2024, a brand‑new "Mega Millions Daily" game will hit ticket windows across the state. Unlike the classic Mega Millions draw that takes place twice a week, this version will be drawn every night at 11 p.m. Pacific time, giving players a fresh chance to win each day.

Tickets will cost just one dollar, and the opening jackpot is set at five million dollars. If nobody claims the prize, the jackpot can roll over, potentially climbing to as much as fifty million dollars before the draw reverts to the base amount. The low price point is meant to attract a broader audience, especially those who shy away from the $30 standard Mega Millions ticket.

"We’re thrilled to give Californians another opportunity to play and win," said Lottery Commissioner Christina Johnson during the press briefing. "A daily game not only adds excitement, it also helps sustain the vital funding streams that support our public schools, wildlife preservation, and community programs."

Indeed, the lottery’s proceeds are earmarked for education initiatives, as well as for the California Department of Parks and Recreation’s conservation projects. Officials hope that the new daily draw will bolster revenue that has plateaued in recent years, echoing a trend seen in neighboring states where daily jackpot games have become popular fixtures.

Not everyone is cheering, however. Some consumer‑advocacy groups raised concerns that a low‑cost, high‑frequency game could encourage impulsive gambling habits. The commission responded that it will continue to fund responsible‑gaming programs and enforce strict age‑verification measures at retail locations.

When the first tickets go on sale, they’ll be available at the same authorized retailers that sell the existing lottery games. Players can purchase a ticket in person or via the state’s official mobile app, which will feature a quick‑pick option for those who prefer not to pick numbers themselves. The nightly draw will be streamed live on the lottery’s website and social‑media channels, so anyone can watch the action unfold.