Alabama Weighs Gambling Amendment Covering Lottery and Casinos
Alabama lawmakers have revived a push to place broad gambling measures before voters by proposing a constitutional amendment that would permit a state lottery, commercial casinos and online sports wagering while creating a statewide regulator and clearing the way for a tribal gaming compact.
Key Takeaways:
- Proposed gambling amendment aims to legalize a state lottery, casinos, and online sports betting
- Establishes a new gaming commission and negotiates tribal gaming agreements
- Seeks to boost state revenue and job creation while addressing longstanding opposition
Senate Bill 257, introduced by Senator Merika Coleman-Evans, seeks to replace current constitutional language that limits gambling. The proposal leaves tax rates, license caps and site details to later implementing legislation.
Industry observers say the approach seeks to resolve long-running disagreements by asking voters to give approval first, then letting the Legislature set operational rules.
Gambling Amendment Seeks Voter Mandate
The gambling amendment would establish a new state gaming commission with licensing and enforcement powers and direct the governor to negotiate Class III gaming terms with the Poarch Band of Creek Indians.
It also would bar future local-only constitutional gaming amendments, aiming to eliminate Alabama’s patchwork of exceptions and to curb an expansive gray market, per Gaming Insider.
Past Failures and Political Resistance Still Loom
Past efforts collapsed amid disputes over casino locations and whether to include sports betting.
Opponents cite social and moral concerns that have historically blocked change. If passed by legislators, the amendment would mark Alabama’s first statewide gambling referendum since 1999.
The current amendment effort comes on the heels of recent frustration with Alabama’s long-running gaming deadlock.
