Alabama appears to be inching closer to legalized gambling now that so-called comprehensive gaming legislation has made it out of the Senate and is awaiting consideration by the House of Representatives.

Although the details of what the future holds in the lower chamber for the series of bills related to the issue have not yet been determined, according to House sponsor State Rep. Chris Blackshear (R-Phenix City), at least one of Blackshear’s colleagues is somewhat confident there will be a House floor vote.

During an appearance on Mobile radio’s FM Talk 106.5 on Monday, State Rep. Tracy Estes (R-Winfield), who also serves as a deputy whip, said he would be surprised if the gaming did not get a vote on the House floor.

“I think so,” he said. “We had meetings last week, and the Speaker — for those who do not know Mac McCutcheon, he is one of the finest men I ever met,” Estes explained. “You know, we’ve had some problems with Speaker leadership in the past. Mac McCutcheon is not that. For those who don’t know, your Speaker of the House is retired law enforcement, retired hostage negotiator, and currently an associate pastor up in his district near Huntsville in Monrovia. When he does things, he does it right. His word means something. He has assured us that we’re going to be methodical. We’re going to move the bill. And I have every reason to believe unless something unforeseen pops up — this will come up for a vote.”

Estes added, “I will say — I’m always hesitant — I’m getting older, I’m 53-years old, Jeff. I’m learning to never say never as I get to where I age a little bit. But based on the conversations I’m hearing, I would be surprised if it does not come up for an actual vote on the House floor.”

@Jeff_Poor is a graduate of Auburn University and the University of South Alabama, the editor of Breitbart TV, a columnist for Mobile’s Lagniappe Weekly, and host of Mobile’s “The Jeff Poor Show” from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. on FM Talk 106.5.