Lottery Legislation Likely In 2nd Special Session

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) – Some legislators anticipate renewed debate over a state lottery in the upcoming special session but are also uncertain if the idea has much of a chance.

Lawmakers convene Tuesday evening to begin a special session on a state budget shortfall. Several legislators say they expect bills calling for a statewide vote on a lottery to be introduced.

Gov. Robert Bentley said Friday that he thought that there was more public support for an Alabama lottery than establishing casinos. However, the governor says he is uncertain if there are enough votes to get any gambling bill through the Alabama Legislature.

Alabama voters would have to approve the idea of establishing a state lottery.