It appears that the state of Illinois will be in a position this spring to launch the sale of online lottery tickets, a move that follows the recent federal opinion regarding Internet gambling.

However, the Illinois Lottery will restrict its sale to Illinois residents.

The Illinois legislature approved a test program for online lottery ticket sales two years ago but delayed implementing the program until the laws were clarified by the U.S. Justice Department.

Supporters of the program believe online sales could draw between 300,000 and 500,000 more players, especially when the mega jackpots exceed $100 million.

The Illinois Internet program will limit play to persons that are 18 years old or older and residing within the borders of the state.