A seemingly unrelated legal battle in a federal court could impact the future of gambling in Alabama. The case, focused on redrawing state senate districts in Montgomery and Huntsville, might determine if the state legalizes casinos, sports betting, or a lottery in 2025.
This potential change comes after gambling legislation was narrowly defeated in the Alabama Senate in April, missing passage by just one vote.
On the other side, opponents, mainly on moral grounds, have raised concerns about the possible negative social effects of gambling.
Meanwhile, a redistricting case is challenging the current state senate district maps, claiming they were drawn with racial bias. The US Supreme Court has already ruled that the maps drawn by the Alabama legislature violate the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
According to AL.com, this November, the issue will return to federal court. If the court determines the maps are unconstitutional, it could order the legislature to redraw the districts.
This redistricting process might change the composition of the senate, potentially making it more open to gambling. However, there is still only a small chance this would affect plans for casinos or state-wide sports betting legalization. "I don't think we'll see gambling next year unless it's just a lottery," Senator Sam Givhan told AL.com.
