Is Sports Betting Legal in Alabama? Everything You Need to Know

Current Legal Status of Sports Betting in Alabama

Sports betting remains illegal in Alabama, with no state-regulated options for either in-person or online wagering. Despite multiple legislative attempts to introduce legal sports betting, none have successfully passed, leaving Alabama among the few states with an outright ban on this form of gambling.

The only legal betting options available in Alabama are pari-mutuel wagering on horse racing and Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS), with platforms like FanDuel and DraftKings operating legally in the state. However, traditional sportsbooks, whether retail or online, remain prohibited.

Some Alabama residents turn to offshore sportsbooks, which accept bets despite not being licensed or regulated in the U.S. While these platforms technically operate in a legal gray area, they lack consumer protections, meaning bettors face potential risks, including loss of funds with no legal recourse.

Compared to neighboring states, Alabama falls behind in sports betting regulation. Tennessee has embraced an online-only model, while Mississippi allows retail sportsbooks inside casinos. Many Alabama residents cross state lines to place bets legally.

Legislative Efforts and Challenges

Alabama has repeatedly tried to legalize sports betting, but each effort has faced obstacles. The most recent push came in 2024 with House Bill 151 (HB 151). This bill aimed to modernize gambling laws by legalizing sports betting, casino gaming, and a state lottery. The House of Representatives passed it, but the Senate removed the provisions on sports betting and casinos, leaving only the lottery. Even in this reduced form, the bill failed, exposing deep divisions among lawmakers.

This deadlock is not new. In 2022, Senator Greg Albritton introduced SB 293 and SB 294, which sought to amend the constitution for sports betting and casino gaming. Like many before them, these bills failed in the Senate. Since 2018, lawmakers have proposed multiple bills—HB 315, HB 336, SB 319, SB 293, SB 294—but none gained enough support to pass.

Strong opposition from religious groups and conservative legislators remains a major barrier. Many argue that gambling conflicts with the state’s moral values. Others worry about problem gambling and the risks of easy online access. Concerns over addiction have made lawmakers hesitant to approve sports betting.

Another key challenge is the lack of agreement between the House and Senate. The failure of HB 151 showed that some lawmakers support a broad gambling expansion, while others will only consider a state lottery. In Alabama, constitutional amendments require a three-fifths majority in both chambers, followed by voter approval in a statewide referendum.

Alabama Sports Betting Timeline

2019-2020: Early attempts to legalize sports betting (HB 315, HB 336) stalled in committee, failing to gain traction.

2021: The Senate passed SB 319, a bill that would legalize sports betting, but the House did not take it up.

2022: Senator Greg Albritton introduced SB 293 and SB 294, aiming to legalize sports betting, casinos, and a state lottery. Both failed in the Senate.

2023: No formal legislation was introduced, but discussions continued. The state also faced a sports betting scandal involving a college baseball game.

2024:

• The House passed HB 151, a broad gambling expansion bill covering sports betting, casinos, and a state lottery.
• The Senate removed provisions on sports betting and casinos, leaving only the lottery. Even in this reduced form, the bill failed.
• Geolocation data showed high public interest, with thousands of Alabama residents attempting to access online sportsbooks.

2025:

• Lawmakers are set to revisit sports betting legalization, with a potential push for a revised bill.
• The Poarch Creek Indians continue lobbying for gambling expansion, possibly including sportsbooks at their casinos.
• Any legislation must pass both chambers with a three-fifths majority and be approved by voters in a statewide referendum.

Public Interest and Potential Market

Despite Alabama’s strict gambling laws, public interest in sports betting remains high. Many residents actively seek ways to place bets, showing that demand for a regulated market exists.

Strong Public Demand

Even without legal options, Alabamians find ways to participate in sports betting. During Super Bowl 2024, over 35,000 residents attempted to access online sportsbooks. Interest spiked again during March Madness, with nearly 190,000 geolocation attempts coming from Alabama. In 2023 alone, authorities blocked over 2 million attempts to access unauthorized gambling sites.

Google search trends also reveal Alabama as one of the top states searching for “how to bet on sports”, reinforcing the strong demand. Additionally, public opinion continues shifting in favor of legalization, with many residents advocating for personal choice in gambling laws.

Economic Potential of Legalization

A regulated sports betting industry in Alabama could generate millions in tax revenue. Estimates suggest the state could collect between $15 million and $42.5 million annually from legalized betting. If Alabama also legalized casinos and a state lottery, total gaming revenue could soar into the hundreds of millions.

Beyond tax revenue, a legal sports betting market would create new jobs in tech, hospitality, and customer service. Both online and retail sportsbooks would require employees, boosting employment opportunities. Additionally, legalization would reduce illegal gambling activity, channeling funds into regulated, safer platforms rather than offshore sites.

Tourism could also benefit, especially if Alabama allowed retail sportsbooks or casino partnerships. Out-of-state visitors could contribute to local businesses and the broader economy. Without legalization, however, Alabama continues to miss out on revenue, while residents take their bets elsewhere.

Future Prospects for Legalization

The future of sports betting legalization in Alabama remains uncertain, but upcoming legislative efforts could bring progress. The 2025 legislative session is expected to reintroduce gambling-related bills, including sports betting. However, the fate of legalization will largely depend on whether the House of Representatives and Senate can reach a compromise on the issue.

Potential Framework for Legalization

If Alabama moves forward with sports betting, a dedicated gambling commission would likely oversee licensing and regulation. Lawmakers have proposed creating the Alabama Lottery and Gambling Commission, which would manage sports betting, casino gaming, and enforcement against illegal operators.

There is growing support for a dual approach, allowing both retail sportsbooks and online betting platforms. If Alabama follows Tennessee’s model, it may legalize only online betting, while retail sportsbooks could become part of tribal casino expansions.

The Poarch Band of Creek Indians could play a key role in launching the first land-based sportsbooks within their gaming establishments. Additionally, a remote registration system would make it easier for Alabama residents to sign up and place bets without visiting a physical location.

Tax revenue from sports betting is expected to provide a financial boost to the state budget, funding education, infrastructure, and public services.

While sports betting legalization in Alabama faces an uphill battle, growing public demand and economic incentives could eventually push lawmakers to take action. The next few legislative sessions will be crucial in determining whether Alabama finally joins the growing list of states with legalized sports betting.

Recent Developments in Alabama Sports Betting

[January 29, 2025]: Alabama’s Gambling Debate Intensifies as Lawmakers Prepare for 2025 Session 

[January 7, 2025]: Anthony Daniels on Gambling Legislation in Alabama: “It Will Have to Be Led in the Senate” 

Alternatives Available to Alabama Residents

Although sports betting remains illegal in Alabama, residents still have legal alternatives to engage in sports-related wagering. Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) and horse racing bets provide opportunities for those looking to test their sports knowledge and strategy in a regulated environment.

Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS): A Legal and Engaging Option

DFS platforms like DraftKings, FanDuel, PrizePicks, Underdog, and Sleeper are fully legal and widely available in Alabama. Unlike traditional betting, DFS is classified as a skill-based contest, where players build virtual teams using real athletes. Their performance in actual games determines points and potential winnings.

DFS platforms offer varied game formats, including:

• Salary Cap Drafts, where users build teams within a set budget.
• Pick’em Contests, where players predict if an athlete’s stats will be over or under a specific threshold—similar to player prop bets.

With many DFS sites providing bonus offers and promotions, new users can get started with extra funds. DFS serves as an exciting alternative to traditional sports betting, offering a similar thrill while remaining legal in Alabama.

Horse Racing: Legal Pari-Mutuel Betting

Though Alabama has no active racetracks, residents can legally bet on horse racing through pari-mutuel wagering systems. This type of betting pools all wagers together, distributing winnings based on total bets placed rather than fixed odds.

Several licensed platforms, including TwinSpires and BetAmerica, allow Alabama residents to place wagers on races from tracks across the country. Additionally, Birmingham Race Course offers simulcast racing events, giving bettors a place to watch and wager on live horse races remotely.

Responsible Gambling Considerations

As Alabama continues to debate the potential legalization of sports betting, responsible gambling measures must be a central focus. Ensuring player safety while minimizing the risks of gambling addiction will be crucial for any future regulatory framework.

Proactive Measures for Responsible Gambling

If Alabama legalizes sports betting, several key safeguards would likely be implemented:

• Self-Exclusion Programs – Individuals struggling with gambling-related issues could voluntarily block themselves from betting platforms for set periods (e.g., months or years). This tool is essential for regaining control over gambling habits.
• Support Services – Access to helplines, counseling, and peer support groups would be available for those in need. Organizations like the National Problem Gambling Helpline and Alabama Council on Compulsive Gambling would play vital roles in offering assistance.
• Educational Initiatives – State regulators and operators would be required to run public awareness campaigns to educate players on gambling risks, warning signs of addiction, and safe betting practices.
• Financial and Time Limits – Platforms would provide deposit limits, betting caps, “cool-off” periods, and session reminders to help users manage their gambling activity and spending.
• Mandatory Responsible Gaming Disclosures – Licensed sportsbooks would need to display responsible gambling logos on their websites and apps, assuring users that the platform operates under state oversight.
• Family and Community Support – Programs would extend beyond individual bettors, offering resources and counseling for affected family members.

Awareness and Player Protection

In a state with no prior experience regulating sports betting, raising awareness about gambling-related harm is essential. Players must understand the warning signs of problem gambling, such as chasing losses, borrowing money to bet, or hiding gambling activity from loved ones.

FAQ about Sports Betting in Alabama

Is sports betting legal in Alabama?

No, sports betting is not legal in Alabama. Despite multiple legislative attempts, no bill has passed to legalize retail or online sports betting in the state.

Has Alabama ever tried to legalize sports betting?

Yes, Alabama lawmakers have introduced multiple bills over the years, including HB 151 in 2024 and SB 293 and SB 294 in 2022, but none have been successful. Strong opposition from religious groups and conservative legislators has been a major barrier.

Can Alabama residents bet on sports in other states?

Yes, many residents travel to Tennessee and Mississippi, where sports betting is legal. Tennessee offers online sports betting, while Mississippi allows in-person betting at casinos.

Are there any legal betting alternatives in Alabama?

Yes, residents can legally participate in:

• Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) through platforms like DraftKings, FanDuel, PrizePicks, and Underdog.
• Horse race betting via pari-mutuel wagering on platforms like TwinSpires and BetAmerica.

What are the biggest obstacles to legalizing sports betting in Alabama?

The main challenges include:

• Strong opposition from religious groups and conservative lawmakers.
• Disagreements between the House and Senate on gambling expansion.
• The need for a constitutional amendment, which requires a three-fifths majority in both chambers and voter approval in a statewide referendum.

Can Alabama residents use offshore sportsbooks?

While some residents use offshore betting sites, these are not regulated or protected by U.S. laws. This means players have no consumer protection, and funds could be at risk.

Will Alabama legalize sports betting in the future?

It’s possible, but uncertain. Lawmakers are expected to revisit sports betting legislation in 2025, but passing a bill will require overcoming political opposition and public skepticism.