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...
Alabama Senate passes gambling and lottery bill
After weeks of deliberation and debate, the highly contentious gambling and lottery bill was approved by the Alabama Senate.
A legislative conference committee will now be tasked with reviewing it and holding more discussions. The bill, known as SB 319, aims to establish a state lottery and increase gambling in the state.
The law would permit the construction of up to six new casinos in the state as well as a lottery managed by the state. Proponents believe that the additional gambling facilities would generate thousands of new employment and much-needed financial income for the state. They also reference the prosperity of nearby states like Florida and Mississippi, whose gambling industries have produced large revenue streams.
However, bill opponents are worried about the possible social consequences of expanding gambling. They contend that easier access to gambling could result in addiction, criminal activity, and other unfavorable outcomes. A few religious organisations have also opposed the law, stating that they have ethical issues regarding gambling.
After passing the Senate by a vote of 21-12, the bill will now be forwarded to a conference committee made up of senators and representatives from both houses to resolve any differences between the versions of the bill passed by each legislature. After the committee has reached an agreement on a final draft, it will return to both houses for one last vote before reaching the governor’s desk for signature.
Senate Majority Leader Thomas Jackson expressed optimism that a compromise could be struck in the conference committee in a statement issued after the bill was passed. They have made great progress in this process, he said, and he hopes they can work together to pass a bill that would help Alabama.
Alabama legislators propose bill to legalise sports betting
House Bill 161 is that which will allow for betting on collegiate as well as professional sports. State Representative John Rogers was the one to introduce this bill, and he...
