OKLAHOMA CITY - Oklahomans spent 40 percent more on lottery tickets and scratch-offs since July 1 than they did during the same time period last year, a boost that has been attributed to changes that include larger payouts.

The Oklahoma Lottery Commission also reported that sales of scratch-off tickets alone are up by 60 percent. Because of higher sales, the commission estimates a double-digit increase in its contribution to education funds next year.

"Even without sales related to recent Powerball jackpots, we're still seeing tremendous growth in other games that are helping drive the increases we're projecting to education," said Jay Finks, director of sales and marketing.