Special to The Tribune
MONTGOMERY –Representative Danny Garrett (R-Trussville) today introduced a bill to the Alabama House of Representatives that would make it illegal for a gambling interest, or a person or agent acting on behalf of a gambling interest, to make contributions to a political candidate’s campaign or to a Political Action Committee. Such contributions are permitted under current Alabama law.
HB 604 defines a “gambling interest” as any business which derives any portion of its gross annual receipts from gambling activities, including the sale of equipment or paraphernalia used in gambling.
“I am not for legalizing gambling in Alabama.” Garrett said. “However, with the recent discussions about possible legislation to expand gambling in the state, I believe it is important to prevent gambling lobbyists from influencing legislators through political contributions.”
“The gambling lobby is a powerful force in other states, and we need to restrict their impact in Alabama,” Garrett said.
Garrett is serving his first term as the representative for District 44 in the House and representatives Trussville, Clay and portions of Pinson.