Powerball and Mega Millions numbers are skyrocketing — totaling more than $1 billion in winnings. With no lottery in Alabama, some residents have driven over the state line to take part.

“I came all the way from South Huntsville up to just across the state line to buy lottery tickets to win a billion dollars,” ticket buyer Chris Bolte said.

He is not alone. Parking lots near the state line are filled with cars with Alabama tags.

Gambling could raise hundreds of millions of dollars for Alabama, according to the state’s gambling policy study group.

“Instead of bringing our money here, and spending it on Tennessee, we need to spend it on Alabama,” ticket buyer Tamara said.