In 2020, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey appointed a study group on the impact of gambling on the state. The group’s report, issued in December, estimates that a lottery and casinos could generate net revenue of $500 million to $700 million annually, and sports betting could produce another $10 million.
In her 2021 State of the State address, Ivey spoke out in favor of a voter referendum on gambling. “I’ve never been an out-front champion on this issue, but I’ve always believed that the people of Alabama should have the final say,” she said. “If established in an accountable and transparent manner, good can come from this effort. The current system only costs the state money and the people don’t benefit in any way.”
In 1999, Alabama voters rejected a state lottery.
Ivey noted that a gaming compact with the Poarch Band of Creek Indians is possible, but her administration wouldn’t negotiate with the tribe until voters approve a constitutional amendment to authorize a gambling expansion.
“Having a compact is certainly one of the items on the table for consideration,” she said. “We haven’t started negotiations.”
For years, Poarch Band officials have said they’d be open to compact negotiations with the state. The tribe operates electronic bingo casinos in Atmore, Wetumpka and Montgomery, but as a sovereign nation does not pay state taxes on gaming revenue.
State Senator Del Marsh recently announced he will introduce
lottery and gambling legislation that would help fund college scholarships and expand broadband access. “The gaming issue in this state has gone unresolved in my opinion for years. And I think the gaming issue is a way to resolve some of our other problems, like scholarships for our young people and young adults wishing for career changes, perhaps. I think it’s a way to find a way to finally get statewide broadband for the state of Alabama.”
He added, “I think things have changed. I think overwhelmingly, from the polling data that I’ve seen, the people of Alabama are ready to address a lottery and casinos. Remember, all I want to do is put something before the people of Alabama to make a decision on. They make the ultimate decision.”
Ivey concluded, “I look forward to working with the men and women of the House and Senate to give Alabamians an opportunity to decide, once and for all, if a different approach to gambling is in the best interest of our state.”
