Alabama senator pushes for tougher penalties on illegal gambling

State Senator Sam Givhan has called for stricter measures against illegal gambling in Alabama, suggesting that lawmakers need to make it a felony in order to effectively deter operators. Givhan's comments come amid ongoing discussions regarding the state’s gambling regulations and the prevalence of illegal operations, which remain widespread despite attempts to introduce legal alternatives.

In an interview on WVNN's "The Dale Jackson Show," Givhan highlighted the rapid profitability of illegal gambling machines, stating: “They pay for themselves in a very short period of time... they’re just going to print cash.” He expressed concern that current laws lack the necessary teeth to discourage illegal activities, noting that many operators are willing to take the risk because “there’s not a felony involved.”

Givhan also pointed out that the lack of significant legal repercussions leads operators to treat illegal gambling as a calculated risk. “Because there’s not a felony involved, they don’t lose their right... to vote depending on what it is,” he explained, emphasizing the need for more stringent penalties.

While personally opposing the expansion of gambling in the state, Givhan acknowledged that there is considerable public support for a state lottery. “That’s what I have people come up and ask me for. ‘Why do I have to go to Tennessee to buy my lottery tickets?’” he remarked.

Givhan raised concerns about the implications of promoting gambling, suggesting that it disproportionately targets lower-income individuals. “You’re advertising mostly to poor people... I think that’s a terrible way to do business,” he said.