The Powerball jackpot has surged to an eye-popping $1.7 billion, drawing hopeful players from across the country.

In Alabama, residents are either watching from the sidelines or traveling to other states to obtain a Powerball ticket because Alabama is one of the few states where you cannot buy a lottery ticket .

Here's what to know about why Alabama does not have the lottery.

Why is there no lottery in Alabama?

Alabama's constitution bans gambling, and while some limited gambling happens through special exceptions, like tribal casinos, efforts to legalize a lottery or expand gambling keep failing because, for decades, lawmakers haven't been able to agree on the distribution of gambling revenue.

What other states do not have a lottery?

Alongside Alabama, Alaska, Hawaii, Nevada a

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