Alabama lawmakers face an uphill battle to pass expanded gaming legislation in 2025, according to state Sen. Sam Givhan (R-Huntsville). Despite previous efforts, support remains insufficient to meet the required three-fifths majority needed for approval.

The most recent gaming package, House Bill 151, which passed the House but failed in the Senate by one vote, would have allowed voters to decide on:

• A state-run lottery
• Electronic gaming machines at pari-mutuel facilities
• Class III tribal gaming compact with the Poach Band of Creek Indians

"I don't think the election changes anything," Givhan stated on WVNN Radio's "The Dale Jackson Show." He emphasized that the Republican caucus rule requires majority support to advance any gaming legislation, which currently appears unlikely.

House Republican leaders, who previously supported the package with a 70-32 vote, have indicated they won't initiate new gaming legislation in 2025 due to perceived lack of Senate support.

In response to the legislative standstill, the Poach Band of Creek Indians has purchased the Birmingham Racecourse, which can operate historical horse racing (HHR) machines under current law. These machines, while similar to slots, base outcomes on previously run horse races rather than random generation.

The tribe currently operates three Class II electronic bingo casinos in southern Alabama: Wind Creek Atmore, Wind Creek Montgomery, and Wind Creek Wetumpka. The Birmingham Racecourse acquisition represents their first venture into the state's northern region.

Related Articles

Previous Articles