Unanticipated lottery surplus in Tennessee

Tennessee has a dilemma they weren't expecting. They've accumulated $460 million in surplus from their lottery, which funds scholarships in that state. The additional revenue comes in part from the fact that many scholarship recipients haven't maintained the requisite grade point to keep the scholarships. They're now debating whether to water down the requirements or expanding the scholarships to all vets (at least $50 million must be kept in reserve there).

In the event Arkansas approves Lt. Governor Bill Halter's initiative to fund scholarships through a state-run lottery, the Legislature will be given the task of promulgating rules that govern it. From what I've seen in Q&A sessions around the state, one concern some have is the Legislature using the proceeds for other purposes contrary to the amendment's intent. Stephens Media takes a look at the Tennessee dilemma.