Can a winner remain anonymous?
Not in the true sense of the word. Wisconsin has what is called an “open records law.” In short, virtually any piece of information state government produces or controls is available to any organization or person requesting. The statutes are specific however, in determining what individual information may be subject to this law. Only information “in the public’s interest” may be released by a government agency. What this means for Lottery winners is two-fold. One, it has been determined that it is in the public’s interest to know there have been lottery winners, as the proceeds of the Lottery are for public use (property tax relief). Two, the Lottery, upon request must release the name of the winner and that person’s hometown. Any other information about the winner, future plans or background information will be released only with the winner’s consent. Likewise, the winner may or may not speak to the media—it is not required, nor can it be prevented.
