The Alabama legislation has recently introduced a new gambling bill that suggests the authorization of ten additional land-based casinos, a state lottery, and sports betting.
Although online gambling, including online casinos and online betting, is not currently included in the bill, it could potentially serve as the initial advancement towards introducing online casinos in Alabama.
This article
- What is the reason behind the consideration of a new gambling bill in Alabama?
- What potential changes may the New Gambling Bill bring about?
The Alabama Gambling Bill – A Fresh Approach
According to a report from WVTM13 News, Alabama legislators are putting forward two fresh gambling bills to create a state gambling commission. This commission will be tasked with overseeing the implementation of five different forms of proposed gambling.
- Casinos
- A lottery organized by the government of a particular state.
- Betting on sports.
- Bingo
- Raffles
By regulating these types of gambling in Alabama, the state government would enhance its ability to effectively manage and curb illegal gambling practices, while simultaneously generating additional revenue.
State Senator Greg Albritton emphasizes the potential for Alabama to take control of an industry, restricting its expansion and profiting from it. By doing so, Alabama would have the means to effectively manage the harmful growth that is infiltrating our state, homes, phones, computers, and communities.
Supporters of the bill argue that it has the potential to revolutionize existing race tracks, transforming them into vibrant entertainment hubs that would generate more job opportunities and tax revenue.
ALCAP president Greg Davis opposes the bill, arguing that the introduction of more gambling activities would bring forth an increase in criminal activities associated with casinos, such as child trafficking and prostitution, which residents strongly oppose.
Despite Greg Davis’ disbelief in the popularity of casinos in Alabama, statistics reveal that residents are actively engaging in gambling activities, thereby diverting taxable revenue to other states.
What does the New Bill bring forth?
The objective of the newly proposed legislation in Alabama is to create a gambling commission and a lottery corporation, with the purpose of effectively overseeing and regulating various gambling activities.
The proposed legislation would grant the existing three tribal casinos in the state the opportunity to enhance their offerings by transitioning from a class II to a class III establishment. This upgrade would enable them to provide a wider range of games, slot machines, and other expanded gaming options.
In addition, if Governor Ivey approves the compact, the state will witness the establishment of seven new casinos, including the highly anticipated Wind Creek Casino. Moreover, there are various other potential casino sites that might also come into existence.
- Birmingham
- The county of Greene
- The county of Houston
- Lowndes County is the name given to a county located in the state of Georgia.
- Macon County is the name given to a county located in a specific area.
- Mobile County can be rewritten as the county of Mobile.
Lawmakers are optimistic that the legalization of sports betting, casino establishments, and the implementation of a state lottery could generate approximately $800 million in revenue for the state. The income generated from casinos and betting activities would be allocated to the state’s general fund, while the revenue obtained from the state lottery would be specifically utilized for educational purposes.
If the bill ultimately paves the way for the legalization of online casinos in Alabama, the potential revenue could surpass a billion dollars. Nevertheless, it’s important to note that the current bill does not encompass online betting or casinos.
