The future of gambling could be affected by a seemingly unrelated court case in federal courts. This case involves the possible redrawing state senate district lines in Montgomery and Huntsville. It could be the deciding factor in whether Alabama legalises gambling, sports betting or lotteries in 2025.
This potential change is a result of the close defeat in April by the Alabama Senate to gambling legislation. This bill was defeated by just one vote.
Both Democrats and Republicans argued in favor of the bill that casinos could generate substantial tax revenue, boost tourism, and create jobs. Public Affairs Research Council of Alabama reported an analysis which showed gambling could generate $749m of state revenue annually. Some reports place the figure at $1.2 billion.
Opponents, who primarily cite moral concerns, have expressed concern about potential social harms that gambling could cause.
Redistricting is currently being challenged, claiming racial discrimination. US Supreme Court ruled already that Alabama’s legislative map is in violation of the Voting Right Act 1965.
AL.com reported that the federal court will hear this case again in November. The court could order that the district maps be redrawn if it finds them unconstitutional.
The redistricting could change the composition of the Senate, creating an institution that is more gambling friendly. There’s a small chance that it will make any difference to the legalization of sports betting or casino gambling in all 50 states. Sam Givhan, Senator of Alabama told AL.com that he doesn’t believe gambling will be legalized in the state next year unless only lottery games are offered.
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