The second full day of the legislative special session got off to a turbulent start Tuesday morning. Republican Senator Dick Brewbaker of Montgomery took to the podium to question why proposals to fund the state's operating budget are at a standstill. He claims gambling interests are at work. The gaming bill's sponsor, Senate President Pro Tem Del Marsh bristled at the accusation.
Gaming Bill
On a 6 to 2 vote, gaming legislation made its way out of a Senate Committee Tuesday. The bill creates a statewide lottery and allows casinos at four existing dog tracks. Before the vote, a public hearing was held that featured primarily proponents, like Macon County Commissioner Drew Thompson. One vociferous opponent is Joe Godfrey, the Executive Director of Alabama Citizens for Action. The bill now toes to the Senate.
Voting Rights Conference
A conference revisiting the 1965 Voting Rights Act will be held at Alabama State University Wednesday and Thursday. ASU's National Center for the Study of Civil Rights and African-American Culture will be hosting "Give Us the Ballot." ASU History professor Dr. Dorothy Autrey says the program will explore the voting rights movement in Alabama. Registration will be held at the John L. Buskey Health Science Building.