Alabama Lawmaker Signals Gambling Regulation Debate for Next Quadrennium

Alabama remains one of a handful of US states without a state lottery and one of 11 that prohibits legal sports betting. Commercial casinos are banned, with Class II gaming limited to three tribal facilities operated by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians. Some counties allow local electronic bingo under constitutional amendments, and limited pari-mutuel wagering exists in four counties.

State Representative Chris Blackshear has indicated that the issue of regulated gambling will return to the legislative agenda in the next quadrennium, which begins next year. In an interview with Alabama Public Television’s Capitol Journal, he pointed to the expansion of unregulated gaming and the need for new revenue as driving factors. "I don't want to say next session, but I will say next quadrennium. I still think it is a conversation we have to have," he stated.

Blackshear sponsored a 2024 constitutional amendment that would have authorised a lottery, casinos, and sports betting, along with a state gaming commission. The measure passed the House but was scaled back in the Senate and failed by a single vote. Any future gambling regulation would require voter approval of a constitutional amendment.

The lawmaker challenged opponents to propose alternatives for controlling the existing black market. "What's the solution to reel that in and control it?" he asked, noting that illegal and quasi-legal gaming is "growing every day" across the state while tribal operations remain beyond state jurisdiction.

Blackshear also emphasised the fiscal motivation, warning that temporary budget surpluses are ending. He cautioned that the extra money in state budgets is truly coming to an end, suggesting regulated gambling could provide a new revenue stream.