Governor Calls Special Session for State Lottery

     Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley says he is calling a special legislative session for a state lottery. Bentley's office released a video this morning saying he wants lawmakers to approve legislation that would let voters decide whether to approve a constitutional amendment to allow a lottery. The Republican Bentley says the state has to find a solution to a funding crisis in Medicaid. He says lottery proceeds would go to "essential state services" that aid children, the elderly, the mentally ill and law enforcement. The announcement doesn't include a date for the special session. Bentley says most neighboring states already have a lottery, and Alabama residents are some of their best customers. He says it's time to begin keeping that money inside Alabama to help solve the state's problems.