The next discussion point at the Alabama session could be the expansion of gambling. Members of the Democratic Party at the annual Conference raised the issue of including this item at the next session.
They presented a plan that would allow experts from around the country to share their views on how gaming expansion could positively impact state revenues. “We’re going to talk about revenue sharing, bring in people from Tennessee, Georgia, and the lottery industry so that our members get a full picture of that picture,” House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels said.
Alabama Gaming Overview
Currently, there are three casinos located in Alabama. Shorter is home to the Victoryland gambling establishment, which offers electronic bingo, which has certain similarities to slot machines, as well as betting on greyhound racing and horse racing. In addition, there are several halls in the state where you can play traditional bingo.
At the same time, Alabama does not have a state lottery nor any traditional commercial casinos or poker clubs. This issue remains relevant for the field of sports betting.
However, Democrats are actively expressing their desire to change the current state of affairs. They expect to make proposals to legalize casinos and sports betting, although the process may not be easy. Previously, legislators were unable to agree on the introduction of a state lottery.
Experts say players who want to play are finding ways to do so out of state. In addition, you can find dozens of sites online, like topcadcasinos.net, that offer free cash bonuses in foreign online casinos. Therefore, gamblers still spend money just outside the state budget.
Support for the gambling industry
Some lawmakers agree with Daniels that gambling can bring additional revenue to the state. This opinion was further strengthened by the introduction of the Powerball and Mega Millions lotteries, which provided huge payouts.
Several neighboring states, including Mississippi, Louisiana, and Arkansas, already offer sports betting and casinos. Tennessee allows betting, and although there are no casinos, all neighboring states have lotteries.
Power in both chambers – the House of Representatives and the Senate of the Alabama Supreme Court – is firmly held by the Republican Party, but there is a chance for some kind of bipartisan agreement on the topic.
Governor Kay Ivey has shown openness to the issue and created a commission to study the issue in 2020. “It’s time to think about what’s going on around us,” some pro-gambling Republicans said.