It may seem innocent enough - a relative or friend gives your child scratch-off lottery tickets as a gift. But is that even legal in New York?

Well, it is generally frowned upon. New York's Responsible Play Partnership, which is the NYS Gaming Commission along with the NYS Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services, offers advice to parents and believes that the tickets are NOT appropriate gifts for those under 18.

Arlene Gonzalez-Sanchez, the commissioner of the NY State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services says "These games can put young people at risk of developing problems with gambling, and we need to ensure that we take whatever steps possible to avoid those issues."

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However, the rules at the New York Lottery website don't exactly say that it's illegal. The only rule in place is that you must be 18+ to buy the tickets. There is no mention of age with regards to redeeming a winning ticket.

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Whether it's legal or not, this is a good time to have a discussion with your kids about the dangers of gambling. It may seem like a fun "game" but is it really worth gambling with your future?

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