Bentley Continues To Push Alabama Tax Hike

DOTHAN, Ala. (AP) – Gov. Robert Bentley says gambling is not the solution to the state’s budget woes, and wouldn’t provide enough money to stave off deep cuts to law enforcement and other state agencies.

Bentley told The Associated Press Monday that draft lottery and casino legislation proposed by Senate President Pro Tem Del Marsh would bring Las Vegas-style gambling to the state of Alabama.

The governor instead continued to press for support for his $541 million tax package.

Bentley said Alabama would lose 130 law enforcement officers if legislators fail to fill the budget shortfall. Bentley made his remarks at the Houston County trooper post. The governor said the post is one of 13 trooper posts that would close under the budget cuts.