Powerball sales fell 40.8 percent in Maryland in September compared to the same month a year earlier, according to information provided to the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Commission at its monthly meeting.
State sales of the game last month were $7.5 million, compared to $12.7 million in September 2013.
Stephen Martino, director of the Maryland State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency, said the state's Powerball players seemed to be experiencing "jackpot fatigue." He suggested players may be becoming numb to soaring prize numbers.
Powerball is played in 44 states and Washington D.C.
Martino told the commission that early sales of the newest multi-state lottery game — Monopoly Millionaires' Club — were promising. Through the first two days, Maryland ranked fourth in per capita sales, he said.
Twenty three other states also play the weekly game. The first drawing is Friday.
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