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The Poarch Band of Creek Indians is advocating for a significant expansion of gambling in Alabama, aiming to introduce table games and sports betting to their casinos. Currently, the tribe operates gaming resorts in Atmore, Wetumpka, and Montgomery, but their offerings remain limited to electronic bingo machines, which resemble slot machines.
Popular casino games such as blackjack, poker, and roulette remain illegal in Alabama, prompting many gamblers to travel to neighboring states like Mississippi where these options are available.
Arthur Mothershed, an executive with the Poarch Creeks, highlighted the challenges faced due to these restrictions. He noted that many casino visitors stop at Wind Creek Casino in Atmore only briefly before heading to Mississippi, where they can find a wider variety of games.
“Many players prefer the skill involved in table games over the randomness of slot machines,” he explained, emphasizing how Alabama’s laws put its gaming industry at a disadvantage.
For table games to become legal, Alabama lawmakers must pass legislation, followed by approval from voters in a statewide referendum. Last year, a proposal that included a state lottery, casinos, and sports betting narrowly failed in the Senate by one vote. Senator Greg Albritton is working on a revised bill, but securing enough support remains a challenge.
The Poarch Creeks support a comprehensive gambling expansion that includes table games, a state lottery, and sports betting. This would allow them to negotiate a revenue-sharing deal with the state. While the final bill may not include all their goals, Mothershed said the tribe remains open to compromise if it leads to increased gambling opportunities.
Additionally, the Poarch Creeks recently acquired the license to operate the Birmingham Race Course Casino. However, their plans for a new facility hinge on whether lawmakers approve broader gambling legislation in the near future.