(Columbia-AP) Dec. 2, 2003 -- Lottery commission members met Tuesday to discuss the potential impact of Governor Mark Sanford's plan to apply the five percent state sales tax to lottery tickets.

South Carolina Education Lottery officials say the lottery could have to withdraw from the Powerball game or could see millions diverted from education if the General Assembly goes along with Sanford's plan.

The plan is part of the governor's proposal to stimulate the state's economy. Under the plan, Sanford would apply the state sales tax to lottery ticket sales. The plan would also raise the seven-cent tax on cigarettes to 68 cents and lower the income tax by 15 percent.

The Legislature could decide to add the sales tax to the $1 tickets. Lawmakers also could elect to lower the price of the ticket to 95 cents and then apply the tax, keeping the price at $1.

Posted 10:01pm by BrettWitt