Previous attempts to expand gambling in the state have also failed
A new gambling proposal has landed in the Alabama Senate, but it is not gaining traction. Senate Bill 257, introduced by Senator Merika Coleman, would let voters decide on a lottery, casinos, and sports betting.
The measure proposes a constitutional amendment rather than detailed rules. If lawmakers approve it by a three-fifths vote in both chambers, the question would go before voters statewide. Only after voter approval would legislators draft regulations and set up oversight.
The bill to bring gambling to Alabama isn’t drawing interest. It was read for the first time and referred to the Senate committee on tourism on February 3, and hasn’t moved, even as other bills are already being considered.
Coleman says the focus is on revenue. She has pointed to funding concerns for Medicaid, human services, and other state programs. She argues that gambling could provide new income without raising taxes.
If approved, the amendment would allow lawmakers to create a state lottery and authorize in-person casino gaming. It would also permit regulation of retail and online sports betting. The bill includes language allowing the governor to negotiate a compact with the Poarch Band of Creek Indians.
Public opinion surveys have shown strong support for letting voters weigh in, particularly on a lottery. The Yellowhammer State remains one of a handful of states without one, while neighbors such as Georgia and Tennessee already offer lottery games.
The last statewide vote on a lottery came in 1999 and failed. A broader gambling package also fell short in 2024. For now, SB257 sits in committee, with no clear sign of movement in the current session.
