The state of Alabama is one of the most conservative in the US, with basically no options when it comes to gambling. The state has one tribal operated casino but continues to say no to the lottery as well as other gaming expansions. Late last week, a representative of the state decided to give it another go, introducing a sports betting bill that would legalize the option both online and in a retail setting.
Details of the Legislation
Representative John Rogers introduced House Bill 336 and it is currently located in the House Committee on Economic Development and Tourism. The bill would allow consumers in the state to place wagers in person at locations that are approved to offer series. Mobile betting along with online options could be used when players are located inside the state’s borders.
If the bill manages to pass, four license would be on offer for operators to obtain in the state. To provide licensing, lawmakers would create the Alabama Sports Wagering Commission. A operator license holder would be allowed to offer sports betting at a licensed facility. A supplier license will be awarded to those who want to supply services or equipment to a facility that has been approved for operations.
An occupational license is one that will allow gaming facilities and racetracks to provide sports betting in a designated zone. With the new management license, a holder will provide the management services need to a facility licensed for operation.
Pricing of Licensing
With a new operator license, the cost is $100,000 up front. The license is good for a five year time frame. After the five years, a renewal is due to continue with sports betting. For supplier licensing, applicants must pay $1,000 up front and renew every year.
For occupational licensing, the price point is only $100, and the renewal must be completed annually. Management licenses have a slightly higher cost at $1,000 and must also be renewed annually.
For tax payments operators will have to pay a weekly amount based on a 10% rate of adjusted gross wagering. The money collected from tax payments will be deposited a new account called the Alabama Sports Wagering Fund.
Players who want to take part in sports betting in the state will need to bee 21 years of age or older. Wagering would be allowed on professional sports as well as college teams, motor racing and other sports that are approved by the new state Sports Wagering Commission.
The bill will have to be approved by the House, Senate and the Governor to become law. If it makes it all the way, then it will be effective the first day of the month after it is passed. It is unclear how well the bill will be received and if the governor will be on board. Governor Kay Ivey already approved a study to review the effects of gambling changes to the state, taking a look at the positive and negative.
