Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

The Poarch Band of Creek Indians praised the Alabama Senate for their passage of legislation to allow Alabamians a vote on a Constitutional Amendment to address gaming in Alabama.

Following the vote, Stephanie A. Bryan, the Tribe’s Chairwoman and CEO, said:

“I want to thank Senate President Pro Tem Greg Reed, along with Senators Albritton, Marsh, and McClendon, and everyone who contributed to this effort in the Senate. This historic vote is the first step to empower Alabamians who deserve to have their voice heard on this issue.”

SB 319 will allow Alabamians to vote on a Constitutional Amendment to create a lottery, and authorize up to nine sites statewide to operate casino-style table games. The bill also authorizes the Governor to enter into a Compact, allowing the Tribe to share a portion of their revenue with the State.

Money generated from the lottery will be used to award postsecondary scholarships to students and revenue generated from casinos will go towards the development of broadband, and administration of rural health care and mental health services. Following Senate passage, the Bill heads to the House.

The Poarch Band of Creek Indians is the only federally recognized tribe in Alabama.  With an annual economic impact of nearly $1 billion in wages, capital, goods/ services, and taxes, the Tribe continues to support the Alabama economy across the State.