The Gaming War in Alabama

The global financial crisis hit many industries throughout the United States, but one that is certainly bouncing back is the gambling and casino industry. With a nationwide view against internet gambling, the states certainly have shown a more positive reception to opening physical casinos nationwide.

In Pennsylvania, slot parlours have recently been accepted and approved, thereby resulting in several casinos opening up which only matches the casino expansions occurring in the state of Illinois and California.

But what about Alabama? The state of Alabama still operates a state-wide ban on electronic gaming machines. Electronic gaming machines include the all-popular ‘pokies’ or slot machines. These games tend to be the most commonly visited in a casino because of their simplicity for new gamers.

In Alabama, casino owners have waged war on the attorney general who still holds the view that these electronic machines are deemed illegal. The dispute, having been dragged through court a few times, is still in a state of tension, and is very unlikely to be solved any time soon.

But the hope is not lost for Alabama casinos. Greenetrack, an Alabama casino company, has already set sights on expansion, out of state, in New York. In particular, the company is looking at heading to the Catskill Mountains area to start a new casino.

Though New York City is already home to several casinos, and borders New Jersey, the state that is home to Atlantic City, Greenetrack still has a chance for prosperity by using their already established brand and gaming reputation to entice New Yorkers into a whole new experience.

Greenetrack has already started market research and public relations prior to making a bid on the area for a new casino. This means that the company is absolutely serious about expanding one way or another.

So while the state of Alabama continues to fight the gambling war, it looks as if the casinos will have a better chance looking away from home for expansion.