April 22, 2024 Group Watch: Senate Names Conference Committee Members for Gambling Legislation
The Alabama Senate appointed members of a conference committee to consider a proposed gambling package, more than two weeks after the House did so. The Senate conferees are Senator Greg Albritton; Senate Minority Leader Bobby Singleton and Senator Garlan Gudger. Singleton and Albritton have both been longtime supporters of gambling legislation. The House and Senate have been at odds about the scope of the proposed legislation. The House approved a bill that created a lottery; authorized casino gambling and sports betting in the state; and directed the governor to enter into a compact with the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, who operate casinos in Atmore, Montgomery and Wetumpka. The Senate passed a stripped-down version that jettisoned everything except the lottery and the compact. Singleton said he was optimistic that something could be worked out, but it might not please all of the parties. He thinks that whatever passes will be approved by the voters.
