EDITOR’S NOTE — As a way to consistently monitor electronic bingo gambling issues across the state, The Alabama Baptist will provide updates such as these each week.
State Legislature: Reports indicate legislation is already being drawn up for electronic bingo gambling bills that will be introduced in the 2010 legislative session.
Covington County: After an attempt to switch the authority of regulating bingo from the sheriff to the county commission failed in early May, the county commission now plans to adopt its own set of rules and regulations concerning bingo in the county. Various reports indicate that at least three gambling operators have approached the county about establishing electronic bingo gambling facilities. Local pastors have asked the commission to include in the regulations of bingo that electronic bingo not be allowed.
Jefferson County: Jefferson County Commission president Bettye Fine Collins said electronic bingo gambling is illegal in Jefferson County. She also noted there have been some concerns raised about “bingo” operations in parts of the county. Any illegal operations should be reported to the sheriff’s department.
St. Clair County: Circuit Judge Charles E. Robinson’s ruling that electronic bingo gambling is legal in St. Clair County has been appealed to the Alabama Supreme Court. While St. Clair citizens await the Supreme Court’s decision, Robinson chose not to “stay” his ruling, a move that technically allows bingo machines in the county at the moment. But Sheriff Terry Surles said he is currently not issuing “bingo” permits in the county. And Ashville Mayor Robert McKay said he would not bring in machines until after the Supreme Court decision even though the City of Ashville’s ordinance allows him to grant bingo permits for the city. In Argo, citizens await a “bingo” ordinance that will soon be proposed by Mayor Paul Jennings. (TAB)
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