Controversy erupts over Alabama bill

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

MONTGOMERY, Ala. -- Legislation that would allow video poker machines at dog tracks in Greene and Macon counties today prompted Lt. Gov. Steve Windom and other gambling opponents to question the Legislature's priorities.

The bills were to be considered today by the House Marketing Committee, which was meeting for the first time as the third week in the legislative session started.

Windom said considering the bills so early in the session is catering to the "big dollar special interests" that want gambling expanded.

Windom said Alabama voters sent the Legislature a strong anti-gambling message in defeating Gov. Don Siegelman's proposed state lottery on Oct. 12.

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