Press Release
Poarch Band of Creek Indians Advocates for Gaming Reform in Alabama
In a recent interview on the Alabama Politics This Week podcast, Arthur Mothershed, Executive VP of Wind Creek Hospitality, declared the necessity for the Poarch Band of Creek Indians to intensify efforts in promoting gaming reform in Alabama. With electronic bingo casinos already operating in the state, Mothershed emphasized the importance of continuous outreach to legislators and constituents, not just during the legislative session.
He noted a significant shift in public sentiment regarding gambling, highlighting polls showing considerable support for legalization, including full casinos, among Alabama voters. Mothershed urged the tribe and allied stakeholders to mobilize and proactively counteract vocal opposition from select groups that tend to highlight specific concerns about gambling legislation.
The failure to pass a comprehensive gaming bill has previously cost Alabama billions in potential tax revenue, as residents often seek gambling opportunities in neighboring states. Recently, PCI acquired the Birmingham Race Course, hoping to expand its facilities significantly if the state embraced a comprehensive gaming plan. Without such legislation, Mothershed indicated that development would be scaled back.
Mothershed suggested that enhancing communication with legislators is crucial. He proposed conducting more targeted polling and focus groups to demonstrate genuine support for gambling in specific districts, particularly to legislators who may believe otherwise based on local feedback.
With the potential for over 10,000 permanent jobs and hundreds of millions in economic impact, the urgency for a regulatory framework around gaming in Alabama has never been clearer. "We hope to create a better experience for our customers and deliver a much-needed revenue stream to address state financial issues," Mothershed concluded, advocating for a shift in strategy as they look toward the future.
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