Alabama governor claims bingo machines are illegal

Thursday, January 29, 2009  

The Poarch Band of Creek Indians is defending the legality of its gaming operation after Alabama Gov. Bob Riley (R) said electronic bingo machines are outlawed in the state.

The tribe exclusively offers Class II games at its facilities. Riley says those machines aren't allowed under state law.

"As governor, I am deeply concerned that many manufacturers, providers and business operators may have a mistaken impression about the legality of certain activities," Riley said in a letter to gaming manufacturers.

Riley said he will shut down non-Indian facilities that offer the games. But attorney general Troy King, who went to federal court to try and stop the tribe from pursuing Class III gaming, said the tribe will still be able to offer them.

Get the Story:
Gov. Riley declares bingo are machines illegal in Alabama (The Mobile Press-Register 1/29)

An Opinion:
Editorial: Rileys motives suspect with his gambling stance (The Tuskegee News 1/29)