What does a lottery primarily serve as for many states?

The primary function of lotteries for many states is to serve as a significant source of revenue. State governments often establish lotteries as a way to generate funds that can be used for various public programs and services, such as education, infrastructure, and health care. The revenue from lotteries helps reduce the reliance on other forms of taxation and provides a stream of income that can support essential state functions. Additionally, the wide participation in lotteries can lead to substantial financial contributions to state budgets, making it an attractive option for funding public initiatives.

While lotteries may also provide entertainment and can be viewed as a tool for regulating gambling, their main purpose centers around generating revenue for state programs and services. This financial aspect is what distinguishes lotteries from other forms of entertainment or regulatory measures, as their existence is often justified and promoted based on the financial benefits they bring to the state budget.