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Alabama Sports Betting – The Latest
While sports betting keeps flourishing in the country, it is currently not legal in Alabama. Despite recent efforts to legalize sports wagering, no legislation has been successfully passed on Alabama betting apps. While legal aspects are still being defined and solved, hopes seem to be arising at the end of the road.
According to various sources, there is a cohesive movement gaining momentum to legalize sports betting in Alabama. The movement seems to be increasingly supported by state advocates, and all actions seem to be gearing up for approval.
Alabama Sports Betting Update
Over the period from 2019 to 2021, four bills were introduced in an attempt to legalize sports betting in the state. In 2021, there was consideration of legalizing online sportsbooks in Alabama, with SB 319 being a notable proposal.
However, the state ultimately chose not to vote on this bill. As of now, it seems unlikely that Alabama will join the ranks of states with legal sports betting, and any developments in this regard may not occur until 2024 at the earliest.
Senator Greg Albritton revealed to various sources last week that he anticipates a comprehensive gaming package from House leadership encompassing Alabama sports betting.
Albritton, who sponsored gambling bills in the previous two sessions, encountered obstacles as Senate efforts stalled in the House on two occasions within the last five years.
When Will We See Legal Betting in Alabama?
Despite robust backing, including support from Governor Kay Ivey, for sports betting in Alabama, the legislative outcome in 2024 remains uncertain.
Additionally, the Alabama Constitution’s prohibition on gambling presents an additional challenge, as success in the legislature would necessitate voter approval.
Some lawmakers in Alabama express a desire to legalize sports betting, with potential plans for retail sports betting to be introduced in the state’s tribal casinos before expanding to online and mobile platforms.
The legalization of sports betting in neighboring southern states serves as a potential catalyst for Alabama to follow suit.
However, it’s important to note that as of now, sports betting remains illegal in Alabama, and the prospects of legalization before 2024 are deemed unlikely. The legislative process faces several obstacles and delays, especially considering the House’s current prioritization of non-gambling measures.
Potential Alabama Sportsbooks
In recent years, the predominant trend among online sports bettors has been the use of betting apps provided by their preferred sportsbooks.
Despite the widespread emphasis on mobile wagering by most bookmakers, the top online sports betting sites excel in providing a quality desktop experience. As is the case with some of the top brands in the US, Alabama will become the next best market to invest in.
That is why top brands such as FanDuel Sportsbook, BetMGM Sportsbook, Fanatics Sportsbook, DraftKings Sportsbook, Caesars Sportsbook, BetRivers Sportsbook and bet365 Sportsbook will all show immediate interest in joining the Alabama market.
Financial studies revealed that Alabama has the potential to generate an annual revenue of up to $800 million by legalizing casinos, sports betting and implementing a lottery.
Specifically, sports betting alone could contribute as much as $10 million annually, as outlined in the study’s conclusions. This is one of the strongest arguments in favor of sports betting and one that top providers in the market would be willing to leverage to enter Alabama.