MONTGOMERY — Governor Kay Ivey (R-AL) on Tuesday afternoon released a statement regarding SB 214, a comprehensive gaming bill sponsored by Sen. Del Marsh (R-Anniston) that would represent a historic investment in broadband expansion, rural health care, mental health care and education.

The statement came minutes before the Senate convened at 2:00 p.m.; the legislature’s upper chamber is expected to consider the bill this afternoon. The legislation would regulate and control gaming activity that already exists in the shadows across the state while for the first time collecting revenue pursuant to this activity. A lottery would be instituted, as well as limited casino gaming and sports betting.

“Early this morning, I had a good meeting with Senate President Pro Tem Greg Reed and House Speaker Mac McCutcheon regarding the gaming bill, and I am pleased with the progress that is being made,” said Ivey.

“For weeks, I have worked closely with Senator Marsh and others on this legislation which could be transformative if done right,” she continued. “While I believe more work needs to be done, moving the bill through the legislative process is a vital next step.”

“My commitment remains the same: to let the people of Alabama have the final say on a good bill that, once and for all, addresses a long-standing challenge that has faced our state,” the governor concluded.

You can watch Senate floor proceedings here.

Sean Ross is the editor of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @sean_yhn