State Sen. Smith still evaluating bingo issue

State Sen. Harri Anne Smith, R-Slocomb, said Monday she wants to gather more information on the proposed electronic bingo center at Country Crossing before reaching a conclusion on the issue.

"I'm trying to learn as much as I can," Smith said. "I've been receiving numerous phone call and e-mails from people both for and against the bingo.
"There is a lot to learn on the issue and I'm trying to see how much information I can get."

Three weeks ago, the Houston County Commission modified existing bingo regulations that pave the way for the creation of an electronic bingo center to be built in conjunction with the first phase of Country Crossing, a country music-themed entertainment development that is scheduled to feature several themed dinner theaters, a water park/entertainment midway, RV Park, performance venue and fairgrounds to host large concerts.

"I have personally, philosophically, always been opposed to gambling," Smith said. "And I've always been very mindful of supporting families in Houston County.

"I love the concept of Branson (Missouri), but this is not Branson," Smith said.

State Rep. Benjamin Lewis, R-Dothan, has already stated his opposition to the spread of electronic bingo into Houston County.

Meanwhile, bingo bills remain in the Alabama Legislature that could restrict electronic bingo to the state's existing dog racetracks. Electronic bingo already exists at racetracks in Shorter and Eutaw, but one bill would expand it to racetracks in Birmingham and Mobile, and the revenue would be taxed to fund Medicaid. Smith said the language of the bills are confusing and could be interpreted as an expansion of gambling rather than a restriction.

Written by Lance Griffin
www.dothaneagle.com