The first California ticket sales will begin April 8, 2013, and the first drawing will be two days later on April 10. Unlike other lotteries, the Powerball jackpot begins at $40 million and increases by at least $10 million every roll.
"We have to continually offer our loyal players a variety of entertaining lottery games, and we firmly believe that Powerball is a right fit for the California Lottery," Lottery Director Robert T. O'Neill said in a statement.
O'Neill added that Powerball is expected to bring up to $100 million more to supplement public education funding.
The $2 Powerball is played like the Mega Millions lottery. Players choose five numbers from 1 to 59 and one red Powerball number from 1 to 35. Players can choose their own numbers or do a Quick Pick. Draws are held every Wednesday and Saturday at 7:59 p.m. PT.
