Alabama is about to strike out in attempt at gambling expansion

Lawmakers have only one more chance to consider gambling legislation this year

This week, a conference committee panel of three Senators and three House members recommended that Alabama lawmakers approve a ballot referendum. In the August 20 special election, voters would decide whether to approve a state lottery, up to seven racinos, and three tribal casinos. 

House lawmakers approved the committee’s recommendations, but the Senate ultimately rejected the panel’s suggestions.

The Senate’s 20-15 vote on Tuesday was one short of the three-fifths majority needed to amend the state Constitution by ballot referendum. Senators said they would vote again, which many thought would happen on Wednesday, but reports say supporters are still seeking the one vote needed for approval. 

Senate Secretary Pat Harris argued that the first vote was to adopt the conference committee’s recommendations and required a simple majority to pass.

If a Senate re-vote falls short of the 21 votes needed, gambling expansion would likely be dead in Alabama. Lawmakers have proposed gambling bills in nearly every legislative session in the past 20 years, with no forms of legalized gambling resulting from those efforts. 

Gov. Kay Ivey (R) hopes the Senate will finally let the issue go before Alabama voters.

“It’s time for voters of Alabama to have their say,” Ivey said. “Legislators have had their say — now it’s time for Alabama voters to vote. Let’s get this done.”

Sen. Greg Albritton proposed the Senate changes to the House bills but was one of the 15 who rejected them on Tuesday. “This is a bill that is not conducive to my constituencies in my district,” said Albritton after the committee removed language to allow the Poach Band of Creek Indians to have a retail casino in northern Alabama.

Lawmakers must pass HB151 and 152 before the current legislative session adjourns on May 20.