April 2024: The Latest News and Updates

Alabama is on the brink of potentially legalizing sports betting, but the road to get there has been a rocky one. The state House passed HB 151 in February 2024, a bill that would legalize sports betting, but the Senate Tourism Committee stripped the bill of its key components, leaving only the legalization of the lottery.

Despite the setbacks, the appetite for sports betting in Alabama is strong. During the Super Bowl, approximately 35,000 Alabama residents attempted to access online betting sites, indicating a high level of interest in sports wagering.

If sports betting does become legal in Alabama, it is expected to quickly gain popularity, much like in other states where it is already legal. Major online sports betting apps are likely to enter the market, providing Alabama residents with a variety of options for placing bets on their favorite sports.

The potential for retail sportsbooks in Alabama is also being considered, with tribal casinos being a possible host for on-site sports betting. The state currently has three tribal casinos operated by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, which could offer a more intimate sports betting experience for patrons.

Overall, the journey to legalize sports betting in Alabama has been a complex one, but with the strong interest from residents and the potential for a variety of betting options, the future of sports betting in the state looks promising.