Vaccinated Coloradans automatically entered in $1 million drawings

COLORADO (KRDO) -- If you're vaccinated from COVID-19 in Colorado, you've got a chance of winning a million dollars, according to Gov. Jared Polis.

Polis announced a new program Tuesday with five drawings of $1 million each for vaccinated Coloradans. Polis said if you're vaccinated, you're already eligible.

Polis said similar programs have worked in other states like Ohio, which saw a "surge of interest" in COVID-19 vaccines after the state announced a lottery.

The governor says the money for the incentive is coming from unused funds that were set aside for vaccination advertising. Polis said the money would be more effective in the lottery than on traditional advertisements.

You do have to be 18 to win the prize, and it's only eligible for Colorado residents.

The first drawing is June 4, with weekly drawings after that. Winners will be contacted by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.

While Polis referred to the drawing as a lottery numerous times throughout Tuesday's press conference, the state clarified that the event isn't an official lottery.

This is a developing story, check back for updates.