NORTH DAKOTA LOTTERY CONTRIBUTIONS SUPPORT STATEWIDE DRUG TASK FORCE OPERATIONS

19 May NORTH DAKOTA LOTTERY CONTRIBUTIONS SUPPORT STATEWIDE DRUG TASK FORCE OPERATIONS

May 19, 2025

_{Media Contact: Suzie Weigel, 701.328.2210}

BISMARCK, ND – When North Dakotans play the lottery, they’re not just playing for a chance to win big – they’re helping fund the fight against drug crime across the state.

Since 2007, a portion of North Dakota Lottery proceeds has been directed to the Multijurisdictional Drug Task Force Grant Fund (MJDTFGF) – a funding source that supports the operational needs of 11 drug task forces operating statewide.

Per North Dakota Century Code 53-12.1-09, quarterly transfers from the Lottery operating fund began at just over $105,000 per quarter and have steadily increased to $250,000 per quarter since July 2023. As of April 8, 2025, the Lottery has contributed more than $10 million to the MJDTFGF.

“These funds are providing a lot of essential support for law enforcement,” said North Dakota Attorney General Drew Wrigley. “Without the North Dakota Lottery’s continued support, our drug task forces could not operate at the level our communities expect and need.”

Unlike other grants, MJDTFGF dollars cannot be used for personnel costs or buy funds. Instead, they help cover the day-to-day essentials that keep task forces running, including:

• Rent and office space, Specialized training, Vehicle leasing programs and equipment and protective gear (computers, radios, vests, and more).

Even though $1 million is transferred each year, demand continues to exceed available funding, making every dollar critical. In fact, some grant applications are denied annually due to limited funds.

“The money raised by Lottery players supports real tools, real equipment, real safety measures, and crucial training that protect our communities,” said Lonnie Grabowska, director of the Bureau of Criminal Investigation. “These funds directly help our officers do their jobs and stay safe while doing them.”

The MJDTFGF empowers local task forces to identify, disrupt, and dismantle drug trafficking networks across North Dakota—work that impacts every region of the state.

For more information about how lottery funds are used, visit LOTTERY.ND.GOV.

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