BIRMINGHAM (TAB) — Gov. Robert Bentley’s lottery bill, SB 3, fell two votes short of passing in the House last night, but in a surprising turn of events that includes a reconsideration motion and a re-vote, the bill was passed just before midnight.
The first vote fell 61–37 against the lottery and the second pushed it through, 64–35. Three representatives — Darrio Melton, D-Selma; Kelvin Lawrence, D-Hayneville; and David Sessions, R-Grand Bay — made the difference, voting “yes” on the second vote.
After the votes, Rep. John Knight, D-Montgomery, said, “I’ve been here a while, but you are thoroughly confusing me now.”
SB 3 now heads back to the Senate at 10 a.m. for concurrence or a conference committee since the bill was amended in the House.
Bentley and Sen. Del Marsh are still saying the lottery vote could be on the Nov. 8 ballot, but confusion continues to swirl around that claim.
To contact your Senator, visit capwiz.com.
The Alabama Baptist will continue to update the story as information becomes available.
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