House committee to consider revamped lottery bill

Published 9:52 am Thursday, May 9, 2019

The Alabama House of Representatives convense during the 2019 Alabama Legislature's organizational session at the Alabama State House in Montgomery, Ala., on Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2019.

MONTGOMERY (AP) — A legislative committee is considering reworked lottery legislation as supporters anticipate a tight vote in the House of Representatives.

The House Economic Development and Tourism Committee on Thursday heard details of a substitute plan by Rep. Steve Clouse. Committee members will vote next week.

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The bill, like the Senate-passed plan, authorizes a lottery with paper tickets.

However, it sends 75 % of proceeds to the general fund and 25 % to the education budget, instead of using a large portion to pay off debt.

Clouse says the state has pressing budget needs and members want to use some money for education.

Clouse said he expects a close House vote. The bill face a mixture of opposition from lawmakers opposed to gambling and those who want to allow electronic gambling terminals.