MONTGOMERY — The Senate passed legislation legalizing historical horse racing gambling machines in Greene County on Thursday by a 20-3 margin.
The only votes against the proposal were State Sens. Keith Kelley (R-Anniston), Dan Roberts (R-Mountain Brook) and Arthur Orr (R-Decatur). Several other Republicans voted present or abstained.
Similar legislation passed the Senate in 2023 but died in the House.
Senate Bill 298 by Senate Minority Leader Bobby Singleton (D-Greensboro) would allow pari-mutuel wagering on historical horse racing computerized machines in Greene County.
According to BettingUSA, the basic premise of historical horse racing is to "give players a slots-like experience in states where full-fledged slots aren't legal."
According to the legislation, an application to operate a racetrack shall only be granted to an individual who has been a resident of Alabama for at least five years immediately preceding the date on which the license is issued or to a corporation, association, company, partnership or other legal entity that has been incorporated, organized or otherwise established in Alabama for at least five years immediately preceding the date on which the license is issued.
The bill is separate from statewide gambling legislation currently being considered by three members of the House and three members of the Senate in a conference committee.
Senate Bill 298 now heads to the House for consideration. There are five days left in the legislative session.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email caleb.taylor@1819News.com.
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