HB263 Alabama 2016 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

John F. Knight Jr

Democrat

Session

Regular Session 2016

Title

Lotteries, prohibition against repealed, Section 65 (Section 65 Recompiled Constitution of Alabama of 1901, as amended), repealed, const. amend.

Summary

HB263 would repeal the constitutional ban on lotteries and gift enterprises in Alabama.

What This Bill Does

The bill would propose an amendment to repeal Section 65 of the Alabama Constitution, which currently blocks the Legislature from authorizing lotteries or gift enterprises. If voters approve the amendment, the prohibition would be removed and future laws could authorize lotteries or gift enterprises. A statewide vote is required for the amendment to take effect, and the ballot would include specific wording describing the measure.

Who It Affects

• Alabama residents who could participate in lotteries or gift-enterprise activities if such laws are enacted.
• State government and regulated entities (the Legislature, election officials, and potential lottery operators) who would gain authority to create, regulate, or oversee lotteries or similar enterprises.

Key Provisions

• Repeals Section 65 of the Constitution of Alabama, removing the prohibition on the Legislature enacting lotteries or gift enterprises.
• Proposes an amendment to the Constitution that would take effect only if approved by a majority of qualified electors voting on the measure.
• Requires an statewide election under existing election laws, with ballot language describing the proposed repeal and a Yes/No choice.
• Directs the ballot to include a specific description of the amendment and the procedural steps for approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Constitutional Amendments