Lawmakers in Alabama passed HB151 and HB152 in February. In its original form, HB151 would have legalized retail and online sports betting, as well as lottery tickets and casinos, in the bingo-playing state. Meanwhile, HB152 was going to create a state lottery and gaming commission to regulate gambling in the state.
However, HB151 stalled in the Senate, leaving sports betting and casinos out of the bill. The revised HB151 passed 22-11 on Thursday, reaching 21 votes in favor. Meanwhile, HB152 also passed.
The bills still include a lottery. In addition, they will empower the governor to negotiate contracts with the Poarch Band of Creek Indians (PBCI) to regulate gaming activities on tribal lands. PBCI operates three existing casinos in Alabama.
Senator Greg Albrighton believed change was needed and would give Alabama “control” over the gambling industry.
The bill now moves on to the House of Representatives. If it progresses there, voters will vote in September 2024 to get final approval for legalization.
However, if the House does not approve all amendments, the bill will instead go to the conference committee to find a halfway point.
What’s included in the bill 슬롯머신
The bill approves a Paris mutual bet with taxes ranging from 24% to 32%.
Paris mutual wagers will be legalized at four racetracks in Alabama and additional points in Green County. Paris mutual wagers will also be allowed at two existing bingo halls.
In addition, PBCI will have the power to place casino-style games and sports bets as well as bingo on tribal lands.
tax incentives for Alabama
According to HB152’s financial note, lottery legalization could result in a net profit of $35.6 million per year (£237.7 million/€279.2 million).
However, if the casino disappears, PBCI will miss out on net gaming revenue (NGR) of around $315 million to $492.2 million. Meanwhile, including sports betting could bring in around $15 million to $41.5 million at NGR.
Congressman Chris Blackshear previously said the expanded gamble could bring $1.2 billion to the state. Of that total, $300 million would come from a contract with PBCI.