MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The Alabama Senate rejected a proposed bill that would have allowed multiple casinos and the creation of a state lottery.
According to the Associated Press, the proposal fell two votes short of clearing the state Senate. The proposed bill would have authorized a state lottery, multiple casinos and a compact with thePoarch Band of Creek Indians for casino games at their sites.
The bill failed on a 19-13 vote in the Alabama Senate. To clear the Senate, it needed to receive 21 votes.
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Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey issued the following statement following the vote:
"Today’s vote by the Alabama Senate confirms more work must be done, because this issue is too important to not get it right. No doubt gambling is complex and challenging, but I remain committed to giving the people of Alabama the final say. I also believe the work of my Study Group last year can continue to be helpful in finding the right path as we move forward.
“Should the Legislature wish to continue discussions on this topic, I stand ready and willing to engage.”
Previous attempts to pass gambling bills in the state have also been met with failure. According to the Alabama Political Reporter, competing gambling bills from the state's House and Senate were passed in 2016, but the two were unable to resolve differences leading to the bill being rejected.