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The Alabama Policy Institute (API), a long-time opponent of the expansion of gambling, has launched a new website aimed at warning lawmakers and the public about the risks of expanding gambling in the state. This educational website, provides research, data, and articles detailing the potential consequences of legalising a state lottery and online sports betting.
API argues that gambling expansion would create a “perverse incentive” for the state to rely on gambling losses as a revenue source. “Legalising casino-style gambling and establishing a lottery is bad public policy, both fiscally and socially, and it is the wrong solution to address the state’s unsustainable fiscal trajectory,” API stated, warning that gambling expansion could lead to “government expansion” and financial instability for families.
API has long opposed gambling expansion, stating that it contradicts its mission to promote free markets, limited government, and strong families. The organisation contends that past legislative proposals have favoured specific operators, limiting fair competition and reducing potential revenue for the state.
API also warns that gambling expansion would require a larger government structure to regulate the industry and could contribute to social issues such as addiction, domestic violence, divorce, financial hardship, sex trafficking, and crime.
“In a state where we are striving to keep up with the mental health needs of our population, it is irresponsible and frankly disingenuous for state lawmakers to create, condone, and encourage additional addictive behaviour while claiming to advocate for those struggling with mental health issues,” API added.
Meanwhile, proponents of gambling expansion continue to push for a state-run lottery and online sports betting. The Petroleum & Convenience Marketers of Alabama has launched a social media campaign encouraging lawmakers to let voters decide on the issue.
In an advertisement linking to its “Give Alabama A Voice” petition, the group said, “We’ve never been closer!!! Here in 2025, we have the momentum to vote on an Alabama Lottery”. The campaign argues that lottery revenue could support schools and infrastructure without raising taxes.
The Sports Betting Alliance is also advocating for the legalisation of online sports betting, citing consumer protections and potential tax revenues of $65 million to $90 million annually. “Legalising online sports betting would protect people against predatory, offshore betting sites and generate tens of millions in new tax revenue,” the alliance stated.
With Alabama remaining one of the few states without a lottery, the 2025 legislative session is set to be a battleground for gambling legislation. This US state has strict gambling laws. It does not allow a state lottery, commercial casinos, online casinos, sports betting, or full-scale tribal casinos with slot machines and table games. The only legal gambling options in Alabama are charity gaming, parimutuel betting and limited tribal gaming. In the 2024 legislative session, lawmakers concentrated on a gambling package (HB 151 and HB 152), however it didn’t pass.
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