- The Alabama House of Representatives approved a gambling expansion bill on Tuesday that would bring a lottery and more forms of gambling to the state.
- Unfortunately, this legislation doesn’t include blackjack and other table games.
- House bills 151 and 152 need just one vote in the Senate to receive approval.
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Alabama could soon be taking steps towards increasing gambling options in the state with a lottery and “electronic games of chance” which includes slots. However, casino gambling like legal blackjack and poker, as well as sports betting, are not included in the bills.
The Alabama House of Representatives voted 72-29 in favor of a conference committee proposal, which went to the Senate where 21 people needed to vote yes. Senators fell just one vote short of the required 21 votes, but the bill was carried over.
Committee Approves Gambling Compromise Without Blackjack
Alabama lawmakers successfully passed HB 151 in the House, which authorizes a state lottery and other types of electronic gaming. This does not include Alabama blackjack, sports betting, table games, and all card or dice games with a dealer.
House Bill 152 was also approved in the House and is the enabling legislation that creates an Alabama Gaming Commission, Alabama Lottery Corporation, and sets up for gaming licenses to operate the electronic gaming facilities. Licensing and tax details of HB 152 include a 15-year license with $100,000 investment, 20-year license with $200,000 investment, and a 24% tax rate for the first five years with all proceeds going towards education.
The gambling legislation didn’t land well with the Poarch Creek Indians, as there is a provision in place that would prevent future expansion of the tribe. However, the legislation does add a compact for full casinos at the Poarch Creeks’ current casino locations.