Alabama continues to progress on gambling regulation
Lawmakers in Alabama have recently voted in favor of two newly introduced bills that aim to legalize and regulate the gambling pastime in the state.
The bills in question are Alabama House Bill 151 and 152, which were initially introduced about a week ago on the 8th of February and proposed to legalize five forms of limited gambling services. This includes a state-run lottery run by a dedicated public firm, land-based casino offerings at up to seven approved locations, and traditional sports betting, raffle, and bingo experiences.
The proposals also seek to establish a regulatory authority, the Alabama Gaming Commission, to oversee gambling activities throughout the state to ensure the safety of the industry and to collect taxes from the pastime. Moreover, Bill 152 proposed the creation of an agreement with one of Alabama’s tribal organizations, the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, to offer and regulate the gambling pastime on tribal lands as well.
The two bills also outlined how the pastime would be taxed, with gambling having a tax rate of 24% while sports wagering will have a tax rate of 17%. The majority of these taxes will go to a dedicated trust fund, which will fund various healthcare initiatives.