New lottery tickets designed to raise funds for breast cancer research and deliver services for low-income, uninsured breast cancer victims could go on sale from January 1, 2012, if a bill to create the game passes the Florida Legislature.
On Friday, Rep. Geraldine Thompson (D-Orlando) filed legislation, House Bill 1017, to create a Florida Lottery game, Ticket for the Cure. The net revenue from the game will be equitably apportioned to state universities that have medical research facilities or that are associated with medical research facilities.
“Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the world today,” Thompson said in a statement. “Detecting any cancer at an early stage is the key to improved survival and decreased mortality rates. Almost one in five Floridians, or 20 percent of Florida residents, lack health insurance.”
Illinois has a similar lottery game and has reportedly generated more than $7.4 million to fund breast cancer research, education and services for patients and families.
“Early detection and treatment is essential for increasing the chance of survival with breast cancer,” said Thompson, a breast cancer survivor. “Too many women in our state are without insurance coverage and the financial means to get the health care they need. Ticket for the Cure will increase awareness and help us provide care to breast cancer patients and families all over Florida.”
Sen. Larcenia Bullard (D-Miami) has agreed to sponsor a Senate companion to HB1017. The legislation will be considered in the upcoming 2011 legislative session, which convenes March 8 in Tallahassee.
