Why is it that you can't gamble with real money online in the U.S. but you can buy your lotto ticket online?

In all states aside from the state of Washington, online gambling is legal. A law was passed in 2006 called the Unlawful internet Gambling Enforcement Act which is also referred to as the UIGEA. This law only prohibits players from making deposits with their bank account or credit card. Aside from Washington there are no states that have legislature regarding online gambling, nor does the Federal Laws. The lottery is encouraged because it is a great way for states to cure deficits and have enough money for publicly funded programs such as education.