Senate Democrats Looking Towards Key Gambling Vote In Alabama

After months of arguments over the legality of electronic bingo machines in Alabama, the issue may finally be put to rest this week. The Senate is expected to discuss on Tuesday a recently proposed bill that would legalize gambling in the state.

Whether or not Senate Democrats can secure the necessary twenty-one votes to advance the bill is yet to be seen. At last count, it appears that the pro-gambling group would come up two votes short.

Four Democrats are prepared to vote against the bill, however, three Republicans are expected to vote for its passage. The end result could be a re-worked bill that would then be passed by the Senate on Thursday.

The reason for several of the "no" votes is the amount of gambling establishments that would be authorized. Under the current bill, ten locations would be allowed to offer video gambling machines. A couple of lawmakers would like to see that number expanded.

The issue has become heated over the past six months with politicians grappling over the legality of bingo machines at Alabama entertainment destinations. Governor Robert Riley has infuriated many residents of Alabama with his insistence on forming his Task Force on Illegal Gambling and carrying out raids.

The raids have forced the closure of some of the biggest employers in the state, and residents are unhappy with the timing of the raids. Thousands of Alabamians have been left without a paycheck after the recent raids.

Attorney General Troy King has warned that a battle may be forthcoming if the governor continues his assault on the gambling industry. King has been asked to shut down the Task Force, but as of yet he has not responded to those requests.

February 16, 2010
Posted By Tom Jones
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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