Ahead of the legislative session, neither chamber seems ready to tackle gambling
Alabama lawmakers are set to revisit the debate over legalized gambling in the 2025 legislative session, but the chances of significant progress remain uncertain. Efforts to introduce a state lottery, casinos, and sports betting have gained traction in recent years, yet strong opposition continues to stall any major legislative changes. Despite support from several senators and growing lobbying efforts, a statewide gambling expansion is expected to face significant resistance once again.
The 2024 session saw a comprehensive gambling bill pass in the House but fail in the Senate by just one vote. This time around, newly appointed Senate President Pro Tem Garlan Gudger has indicated that gambling reform will not be a top priority.
Instead, he plans to focus on other issues, including crime and immigration. House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter has also signaled that any gambling-related measures would have to come from the Senate, further dampening hopes for a breakthrough.
Despite these challenges, gambling advocates continue pushing for change. The “Give Alabama A Voice” campaign, backed by the Petroleum & Convenience Marketers of Alabama, is calling for a lottery referendum, arguing that legalized gambling could generate substantial revenue for education and infrastructure.
However, some lawmakers, including Senator David Sessions, remain skeptical. He has expressed concerns over the potential social impact of gambling but acknowledged that a well-crafted bill could gain support if it serves the state’s best interests.
Major betting operators like FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetMGM are also ramping up lobbying efforts, signaling long-term industry interest in the Cotton State. While gambling legalization in the state may be inevitable, it remains unclear whether 2025 will be the year lawmakers finally make a move.
Editor at the Big Blind, is a rising star in gambling journalism with a decade of experience, focusing on clear and accessible communication for a diverse audience.
