Differing Stances on Slot Machines and Bingo

There are many in the state of Alabama that would like a straight answer as to what the clear legal definition of what makes a legal slot machine and what doesn’t. Ever since Governor Bob Riley announced that he was cracking down on illegal slot machine activity, many who were in possession of the machines or bingo machines have been concerned as they say that they don’t have a clear answer of what is allowed and what is not.

There have been slot machines, or as some refer to them as electronic bingo machines, in the state since 2002. The slot machines were licensed and approved to be operated through permits that were issued in the state’s individual counties. Some of them pay fees and licenses to have the slot machines, but others do not. Any Indian owned facility will not have to pay the fees, but the others do.

The problem that many in the state are currently wrestling with is the Sweet Home Alabama Plan which will allow slot machines in the state, and they will be taxed and regulated – and listed as bingo. But those that are against it, and want Riley to continue blocking the games is that they feel that regular bingo games are sufficient for the state and that slot machines are not appropriate.

They say that they are asking for an “epidemic” of gambling if they allow this bill to pass. They argue that although those that are pro slot machines are trying to make them look like innocent bingo machines, they are not. They say that there was a 2006 ruling that declared that bingo machines are slot machines, and therefore they are illegal. They don’t want to see the state opened up to slot machines, and they are fighting to keep the machines illegal.

Back to Monthly Archive // Main Slot Machine News Index