While GreeneTrack and Victoryland sort out recently confronted legal hurdles to stay in business, those developments could mean a once-and-for-all legislative solution is in the works.
However, getting votes in the legislature continues to be a challenge, according to State Sen. Greg Albritton (R-Atmore), the Alabama Senate general fund budget committee chairman.
During an interview with Mobile radio FM Talk 106.5's "The Jeff Poor Show," Albritton argued failure by the House of Representatives to pass legislation had been the reason in the past for the lack of progress on the gaming issue.
For now, the Escambia County lawmaker said he was uncertain about the future of gambling in Alabama.
"I'm only one vote," Albritton said. "I have no commitments from the House leadership or even from many House members as to which direction they may want to take or do or not. I've contacted the Governor. We're trying to see what the Governor wants to do. So, yeah, we've got a problem. We've got a couple of suggestions, but we don't have votes to move it forward – at least, that's my analysis."
Albritton, whose district includes the Poarch Band of Creek Indians' Atmore gaming facility, insisted Gov. Kay Ivey would have to play a role in overcoming hurdles in the House of Representatives.
"Looking at the problems we have had in the House as far as getting votes and getting procedurally moved forward, I think the Governor's office is going to have to be a major player if we're going to accomplish anything in this industry," he added.
Jeff Poor is the executive editor of 1819 News and host of "The Jeff Poor Show," heard Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-noon on Mobile's FM Talk 106.5. To connect or comment, email jeff.poor@1819News.com, or follow him on Twitter @jeff_poor.
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