Alabama Gambling Bill Runs Into Trouble Following Senate Changes

Article by : Erik Gibbs Mar 26, 2024

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In the Alabama State House, the fate of legislation concerning the initiation of a state lottery and the potential allowance of casinos and other gambling amenities remains shrouded in uncertainty. The discord primarily stems from differing viewpoints on sports betting and the extent of casino expansion.

As lawmakers prepare for spring break next week, efforts are underway to bridge the gap between two contrasting proposals.

On one hand, there’s a comprehensive plan endorsed by the House that envisions sports betting and the establishment of multiple casinos equipped with table games. On the other hand, the Senate has greenlit a more conservative version of the bill.

For any gambling measure to proceed, it must garner approval from both three-fifths of legislators and a majority of voters. Notably, Alabamians haven’t had a say on gambling matters since rejecting a proposed lottery back in 1999.

Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Reed acknowledged the House’s desire to review the Senate’s amendments, indicating a pause for deliberation. The forthcoming break offers an opportunity for reflection, with lawmakers set to reconvene and reassess the situation upon their return.

Reed emphasized that in the Senate, they firmly excluded certain elements such as sports betting and extensive casino projects.

The House initially endorsed a broad constitutional amendment, advocating for a state lottery, sports betting both in-person and online, and the establishment of up to 10 casino sites featuring table games and slot machines.

Conversely, the Senate proposal significantly curtailed the number of potential casino venues and completely omitted sports betting. Under the Senate’s vision, the state lottery would be permitted alongside electronic wagering machines at select locations, including dog tracks.

Additionally, it would mandate the governor to negotiate a compact with the Poarch Band of Creek Indians. Such an agreement could potentially grant the tribe authorization to operate full-fledged casinos with table games across its three state locations.

Senator Greg Albritton, responsible for leading the legislation in the Senate, highlighted the contrasting nature of the two chambers’ proposals.

While the House presented a comprehensive plan covering various aspects, the Senate offered a more streamlined approach with specific directives for potential modifications. This discrepancy appears to have hindered the bill’s progress.

Albritton emphasized the need for urgency and compromise, highlighting that time and flexibility could dictate the outcome of the year. Lawmakers are set to reconvene in Montgomery on April 2.

In contrast, Senate Minority Leader Bobby Singleton offered a speculative estimate, suggesting a 60% chance of passing a bill before the session’s end in May. Singleton underscored the unpredictable nature of the legislative process, noting that progress could materialize at the eleventh hour.