Sen. Givhan Advocates for Tougher Penalties to Curb Illegal Gambling in Alabama

Alabama, advocating for stricter penalties to deter operators from engaging in these activities. During an appearance on WVNN’s “The Dale Jackson Show,” Givhan expressed that the state’s current laws lack the necessary strength to curb illegal gambling operations, which continue to proliferate despite recent legislative efforts.

In the 2024 legislative session, lawmakers came close to legalizing certain forms of gambling while simultaneously attempting to crack down on illegal operations. However, illegal gambling remains widespread across the state. According to Givhan, one way to address the issue is to impose harsher penalties, including felony charges, for those running illegal gambling machines.

“I think we’re going to have to make a felony to stop anything,” Givhan said during the interview. He explained that many illegal gambling operators are willing to take the risk because the current penalties are not severe enough to act as a deterrent. The quick profitability of illegal gambling machines, combined with the absence of significant legal consequences, allows operators to continue their activities with little fear of repercussions.

A Risk Worth Taking for Illegal Operators

Givhan pointed out that many of these operators are undeterred by the current laws because they view it as a calculated risk. “They put them out there. Yes, some may get snagged on day one before they pay for themselves, but they’re going to have others that rock and roll for a while, and they’re just going to print cash,” he explained. Without the threat of a felony conviction, Givhan argued, these operators are more willing to take their chances, as the potential profits outweigh the risks under current legislation.

The senator also noted that making illegal gambling a felony could have broader consequences for offenders, such as loss of voting rights and longer jail sentences, which could act as more effective deterrents. “There are lots of things that come with being a felon, including more jail time,” he added, underscoring the need for harsher penalties.

Alabama’s Desire for Legalized Gambling

Despite his firm stance against illegal gambling, Givhan acknowledged that the majority of Alabamians are in favor of some form of legalized gambling, particularly a state lottery. He mentioned that while he personally opposes such measures, the demand for legal gambling options, including a lottery, is evident across the state.

“My position has been clear for a long time,” Givhan said. “I think it’s poor public policy. You’re advertising mostly to poor people or middle-class people of dreams of riches. You’re advertising for them to fund the government by spending their money. And I think that’s a terrible way to do business.” However, he conceded that legal gambling, especially a lottery, is overwhelmingly ed by the public.

Givhan highlighted the frustration many Alabamians feel about having to cross state lines to participate in lotteries. “That’s what I have people come up and ask me for. ‘Why do I have to go to Tennessee to buy my lottery tickets?’” he remarked, emphasizing the widespread desire for a lottery system within the state.

While the debate over legalized gambling continues, Givhan remains focused on tackling the issue of illegal gambling through stronger legislation. He believes that by introducing felony charges for illegal operators, Alabama can take a significant step towards curbing these activities and restoring integrity to the state’s gambling laws.

Source:

“State Sen. Givhan: Alabama will have to make illegal gambling a felony to prevent it“, yellowhammernews.com, October 19, 2024.