Gamblers Take To The Streets In Alabama In Support Of Bingo Halls

Governor Robert Riley has not made many friends with what some consider to be vicious attacks on the gambling industry in Alabama over the past year. Hundreds of people took to the streets on Saturday to voice their displeasure over the governor shutting down their bingo halls.

The rally not only urged that the state back off their attempt to close all the bingo halls, but also encouraged voter registration, with the hope that the next governor will be more in tune with the residents in the state.

"I came down here today because I have several friends who have lost their jobs because the bingo hall they work at was shut down by the Task Force (on Illegal Gambling)," said Beverly Wollen. "I just want it to be known that this issue is important to us, and that we will not accept the idea that our voices will not be heard."

One gubernatorial candidate that could gain thousands of votes with his gambling stance is Ron Sparks. The Democrat has openly discussed his intention to regulate the gambling industry in Alabama, and many residents see Sparks as a fresh change from the politics that Riley has used to shut down the gambling halls.

Riley has formed the Task Force on Illegal Gambling that has been raiding gambling halls throughout this year. At each stop, the Task Force has been met with resistance from local and County judges, but the Supreme Court has generally ruled in favor of Riley.

The issue is whether or not the electronic bingo machines being used in the gambling establishments are against Alabama law. Various judges have differing views. Earlier this year, lawmakers attempted to create a bill that would have put the issue in the hands of voters, but Riley and his political supporters shot the legislation down.

Thousands of jobs have been lost in Alabama due to the Task Force raids. Alabama had already been struggling with both their economy and unemployment rate, before the thousands of workers were added to the problems.

August 29, 2010
Posted By Tom Jones
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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