The Alabama House of Representatives voted to reject Senate changes to gambling legislation, leading to a conference committee to resolve differences. The House version included sports betting and up to 10 casinos, while the Senate eliminated sports betting and reduced the number of potential casino sites. The Senate proposal allows for a state lottery, electronic wagering machines, and a compact with the Poarch Band of Creek Indians. Both chambers must find a middle ground for the bill to move forward.
Rep. Chris Blackshear believes the Senate’s scaled-back bill leaves potential revenue on the table. Both chambers must reach an agreement on the bill, which would require approval from lawmakers and voters. The last time Alabamians voted on gambling was in 1999.
House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter is hopeful for a compromise, emphasizing that the people of Alabama deserve a chance to vote on the issue. Sen. Bobby Singleton also hopes for progress in the conference committee.
The bills have made significant progress this session, further than in recent years. The Senate adjourned without taking action, leaving the lottery and gambling proposal in legislative limbo. The lack of action by the Senate means that a resolution may need to wait until members reconvene.
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