Mich. puts Internet lottery on hold pending review

LANSING, Mich. (AP) -- The Michigan Lottery is suspending plans to sell tickets and offer games on the Internet pending a review.

The decision comes after lawmakers didn't allocate money to launch an "iLottery" in early 2014.

Lottery spokeswoman Andi Brancato told The Associated Press on Tuesday that officials are putting on hold plans to hire a company to develop an online system and games. The winning bidder was to be announced a week-and-a-half ago.

Gov. Rick Snyder asked for more than $3 million for the iLottery in his budget. Though legislators blocked the request, it appears nothing would stop Michigan from using other money to implement the program.

Legislators blocked funding over worries about increased gambling addiction and a hit to brick-and-mortar stores. Lottery officials say they could restrict how much people play.