We are once again stuck in legislative gridlock over a simple question: should the people of Alabama be allowed to vote on a state lottery and expanded gaming? 

This is not about politics. It’s about reality. 

It is no secret that by 2027 Alabama will be in serious need of funds. One-time federal dollars are disappearing, while costs tied to education, infrastructure, healthcare, and public safety continue to rise. The question legislatures should be answering now is straightforward: where will that money come from? Taxing the people is one answer — but is it the only answer? 

At the same time, Alabamians already spend money on lottery games and gaming. They buy lottery tickets in Georgia and Tennessee. They take a “fun bus” to Mississippi for gaming. They participate online through unregulated platforms. All of that activity is perfectly legal once it crosses the state line, but not if it happens at home. Why? 

Neighboring states have already answered this question. Georgia uses lottery revenue to fund education and scholarships. Mississippi uses gaming revenue to support infrastructure and local economies. Florida and Tennessee use these revenues for education, transportation, and public services. Meanwhile, huge sums that could support Alabama’s priorities instead flow to other states. 

Opponents will argue about morality. Others will argue about risk. Those are fair conversations to have. But the key point is this: those arguments belong with the voters, not behind closed doors at the State House. 

Alabama voters are smart. They’re thoughtful. And they’re more than capable of weighing the pros and cons of a state lottery and expanded gaming and making a decision for themselves. 

For lawmakers, this may feel like a short-term arm flex in a single session. But the real question is what comes next. When budgets tighten and your district needs funding, what will  your answer be? Raising taxes on your constituents? Cutting services? Hoping for a financial miracle? 

Let’s stop exporting potential revenue. Put the question on the ballot. Trust the voters. And let Alabamians decide.

Laura Johnston Clark is a wife, mother, and businesswoman. She grew up in the Wiregrass and now lives in Birmingham with her husband, retired Air Force Colonel David Etheredge. She is a member of the Alabama Republican Party.