The sponsors of two separate legislative moves that would allow Alabama voters to decide on a state lottery and the legalization of sports betting have said that they do not expect a vote on either bill this legislative session.
Senator Greg Albritton sponsored a bill SB 293 that sets out the framework for creating a state lottery, five new casinos and the legalization of sports betting in Alabama. His bill also includes provisions for two satellite casinos and the establishment of a commission to regulate in-state gambling.
This is a similar bill to one that passed in the Senate in 2021 but then failed to garner enough support in the House of Representatives. The bill was approved by a committee three weeks ago, but no further moves have been made on it as of yet.
According to Albritton, opponents of the bill are those that would benefit from a lack of state regulations on gambling. He told the Senate:
“I’m correct on this issue. I know this data, up and down. I’m familiar with the industry. I’m familiar with the challenges. I was optimistic because I felt the arguments would win the day. But the money won the day.”
Meanwhile, in the House, Rep. Chip Brown has admitted that he doesn’t think there will be enough time in this legislative session for his state lottery bill HB 502 to be put to a vote.
“I think we just don’t have the time right now to work on something as complex as that. So I think it’s just something we’re going to have to look at addressing another session.”
Brown’s bill was introduced on March 15th and won committee approval just two days later. However, lawmakers have yet to finalize a date to vote on the bill.
If either bill passes, this will be the first time since 1999 that Alabama voters will get the opportunity to vote on a state lottery. The Yellowhammer State is one of only 5 states that have no lottery.
An experienced iGaming commentator and analyst based in New York City - Jenny reports on regulation and gambling industry news and events.