By Bob Katzen

The Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee also held a hearing on a bill that would allow Lottery winners to remain anonymous.

Sponsor Rep. Paul McMurtry (D-Dedham) did not respond to repeated e-mails from Beacon Hill Roll Call to comment on his bill.

Supporters say winners should have the option of remaining anonymous to avoid all the visits, phone calls and e-mails from family, friends and strangers seeking some of the money.

Opponents say the publicity for the winner and the Lottery when someone wins a big jackpot helps boost overall Lottery sales.