Alabama Gambling Issue Now Being Investigated By FBI

Governor Robert Riley has used every tool at his disposal to try and rid Alabama of electronic bingo gambling. Now, Riley is being accused by some lawmakers of pulling the federal government into the battle.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation is now inquiring about possible corruption surrounding the gambling issue in Alabama. Specifically, the FBI is looking into the latest piece of legislation that has passed through the Senate.

Earlier this week, the Senate voted 21-13 in favor of allowing voters in Alabama to decide the future of electronic bingo gambling. Immediately after its passage, Governor Riley called the bill "corrupt." Just days after the proclamation from Riley, the FBI inquiry was revealed.

The gambling issue has become the top political issue in the state over the past year. Gubernatorial candidates are weighing in with their stances on the issue, and current lawmakers are split on the issue.

Governor Riley has created the Task Force on Illegal Gambling and it has drawn criticism for the way the Task Force carries out its duties. Attorney General Troy King has recently taken control of the Task Force and relieved the head of the Force, John Tyson Jr. of his position.

Several lawmakers that are in favor of the legislation passed in the Senate have been critical of Riley's stance. They believe that Riley may have had something to do with the FBI investigation, although the governor denies any involvement.

April 2, 2010
Posted By Terry Goodwin
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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