Alabama: Pre-filed bill would increase penalties for illegal gambling operations

Monday, October 14, 2024 8:22 PM
Photo:  Sean Pavone/Shutterstock.com
  • Ryan Hall, WIAT

A pre-filed bill for Alabama’s 2025 legislative session would increase penalties for owning an illegal gambling operation.

Rep. Matthew Hammett (R-Dozier) is one of many lawmakers wanting to crack down on illegal gambling. In Covington County, a convenience store owner was discovered selling scratch-off tickets. Hammett says the current penalties don’t go far enough, leading to re-offenders.

“We had some in the store, and they sent in Opp Police Chief [Kevin] Chance. Him and the district attorney went in and got him,” recalled Hammett. “And they said they’ll be back up in six months ’cause it was just a misdemeanor. All we can do is just slap [them] on the wrist.’”