The Alabama Retired Employees Association and the Alabama Public Employees Advocacy Alliance (ARSEA/APEAL) are calling on all retirees and employees to support the state's updated gaming laws.

This organization is HB151 and HB152 It could contribute to cost-of-living adjustments to state retirement benefits, something that hasn't happened since 2006. ARSEA/APEAL argues that the value of state retirement benefits has fallen and will continue to fall due to rising inflation.

“The reliable source of funding provided by gaming revenues may ultimately allow for increased retirement benefits. Additionally, we have always supported initiatives such as the creation of a state lottery or the authorization of gaming through statewide elections. “We have always taken the position that Alabamians should be allowed to express their opinions on this very important issue,” the email to members said.

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ARSEA/APEAL urges its members to contact their local senators to find out their position on this issue and urge them to support the bill.

“Casino and sports betting revenues are projected to be in the $300 million to $400 million range, which will be directed to the general fund budget, with approximately $200 million estimated to be generated by the lottery going to the Education Trust Fund. It will be donated.”

The bill has been approved by the House of Representatives and could be considered by the Senate as early as this week.

The bill is considered Alabama's current opportunity to legalize its gaming, lottery, casino and sports betting framework since voters last rejected the form presented as a constitutional ballot amendment in 1999. ing.

Michael Brauner is a senior sports analyst and contributing writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @MBraunerWNSP