Are members permitted to buy NYS LOTTERY tickets while on duty?

Members are indeed permitted to buy NYS LOTTERY tickets while on duty because it is classified as legal gambling. In New York, the state lottery is sanctioned by law, meaning that participating in the lottery does not violate any legal restrictions. Since the lottery is regulated and organized by the New York State government, it differs from other forms of gambling that may lack such regulation or could be deemed inappropriate for public employees.

It's important to recognize that being on duty does not inherently preclude engaging in activities considered legal by the state, as long as those activities do not interfere with the responsibilities of their position. Further, while some forms of gambling may be restricted for state employees, participating in a state-sponsored lottery is generally acceptable.

In other contexts, options suggesting outright prohibition or requiring off-duty status point to the need to maintain professional conduct and responsibility, but in this specific case regarding the NYS LOTTERY, the law provides a clear allowance for participation.