Alabama’s Gambling Bill Faces Gridlock as House and Senate Disagree

Efforts to pass comprehensive gambling legislation in Alabama hit a roadblock on April 4 as the state House of Representatives rejected Senate amendments to the proposed bill. This decision has led to a standoff between the two chambers over the inclusion of sports betting and the number of allowable casinos.

Tensions Rise as Alabama Lawmakers Debate Gambling Bill Changes

The bill, which has been mired in controversy since its introduction, saw its first legislative action in weeks as representatives voted to send it to a conference committee. This move came after the Senate made significant changes to the House-passed version, which initially proposed a state lottery, sports betting, and the establishment of up to 10 casinos featuring table games.

The Senate’s revised version, however, stripped away provisions for sports betting and limited the number of potential casino sites, confining them solely to tribal land.

Sen. Greg Albritton, who led the bill in the Senate, expressed dwindling optimism regarding the possibility of reaching a compromise. He attributed the impasse to entrenched positions within the Senate, with some members staunchly opposed to sports betting or expanding casino operations, reported the Associated Press.

Rep. Chris Blackshear, the bill’s House sponsor, lamented the Senate’s modifications, arguing that they could forfeit significant revenue opportunities for the state. He emphasized the need for both chambers to bridge the substantial gap between their respective proposals to facilitate meaningful discussions.

Contrasting Approaches Spark Legislative Debate

The House-approved bill sought to amend the state constitution to authorize a range of gambling activities, including a lottery, sports betting at physical locations and online platforms, and the operation of up to 10 casinos offering table games and slot machines. 

In contrast, the Senate’s version focused on establishing a state lottery, permitting electronic gaming at select venues, and requiring negotiations with the Poarch Band of Creek Indians for potential casino expansion on tribal grounds.

With both versions now in contention, any final gambling proposal would require approval from three-fifths of legislators and a majority of voters. Notably, Alabamians have not voted on gambling since rejecting a proposed lottery in 1999.

Despite the deadlock, House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter expressed optimism about finding common ground, emphasizing the public’s desire for a chance to weigh in on the issue.As the legislative session progresses, attention now turns to the appointment of a conference committee by the Alabama Senate upon their return to session next week. The outcome of these deliberations will shape the future of gambling legislation in the state, with significant implications for Alabama’s fiscal landscape and the broader gambling industry.