The new gambling legislation passed by the Alabama House has encountered a hurdle in the Senate.
A Senate committee is pushing for a diluted version of the bill, one that excludes a casino in Mobile but includes a statewide lottery.
The House version proposed seven casinos in key cities, including Mobile, but the Senate has scrapped this proposal.
Additionally, sports betting is not included in the Senate bill.
While race track wagering at Mobile’s dog track and other established tracks would continue, electronic bingo and casino games would be prohibited.
However, charitable bingo games and raffles, crucial for nonprofits’ fundraising efforts, would still be allowed.
Both the House and Senate agree on the legalization of a lottery.
The Senate bill also permits negotiations for casino-style gambling at facilities operated by the Poarch Creek Indians, such as Wind Creek in Atmore, although no timelines or specifics are provided.
One major point of contention is how the revenue from the lottery and racetrack betting would be utilized.
Under the Senate version, funds would be allocated for capital improvement projects and infrastructure until 2029. Afterward, the revenue would be divided among education, general government, and roads and transportation.
Also Read: Who is Apple Farrelly? Peter Farrelly’s Daughter, Learn About Her Life, Career & Achievements
This legislation still needs to be consolidated into a single bill between the House and Senate before it can be put to a vote.