Conference committee still negotiating gambling legislation

Most of the conversations between a six-member conference committee regarding gambling have happened away from the public’s view. Representative Sam Jones, D- Mobile, said he could not provide specifics on the negotiations but said progress is being made.

The conference committee is made up of three representatives and three senators:

• Representative Sam Jones, D-Mobile
• Representative Andy Whitt, R-Harvest
• Representative Chris Blackshear, R-Phenix City
• Senator Greg Albritton, R-Atmore
• Senator Garlan Gudger, R-Cullman
• Senator Bobby Singleton, D- Greensboro

“The conference committee is making substantial progress in addressing the differences between the House and the Senate bills. We remain positive and hopeful that we can reach an agreement that is fair and that yields the best results for the people of Alabama,” said Jones.

House Bills 151 and 152 initially provided for a state lottery, sports betting, casinos, a casino licensure process, and a gaming compact with the Poarch Band of Creek Indians who have three facilities on tribal land.

The Senate removed sports betting and casinos off of tribal land. They added provisions related to pari-mutuel wagering.

Regulatory commissions with enforcement divisions are included in both versions.

The revenue projections for each version are vastly different.

Jones wants to ensure any additional revenue coming into Alabama is used on public education, affordable healthcare, and infrastructure.

“We continue to raise these up because they are sound, proven investments that benefit everyone in our state,” said Jones. “As revenue is produced for our state, it is critical that the entire process is fair and equitable throughout the state.”

Jones said the committee is working well together.

He added a public meeting would be held but did not have specifics for when and where that meeting would occur.