Montgomery, AL – A new bill in Alabama could make sports betting legal and help student-athletes get paid. House Bill 490 (HB490) is currently being discussed in the state legislature and could bring big changes.
If passed, HB490 would create the Alabama Gaming Commission to regulate sports betting. This means people could legally place bets on sports, both online and in person. Supporters say this could bring in millions of dollars in tax revenue for the state.
A 10% tax would be applied to sports betting profits. That money would be divided among three key funds: 40% to the General Fund, 40% to the Education Trust Fund, and 20% to a new fund supporting college athletes’ name, image, and likeness (NIL) rights.
“This bill helps Alabama’s economy and ensures fair rules for sports betting,” said Representative John Anderson, a key supporter of the bill. “Other states are already benefiting from this, and we should too.”
The bill would also create an NIL Oversight Committee, which would manage how college athletes can make money from sponsorships and endorsements. It would also give student-athletes a state income tax exemption for NIL earnings.
Some people worry about the effects of more gambling in Alabama. “We need to be careful and make sure this doesn’t lead to gambling problems,” said Senator Lisa Reynolds, who wants stronger protections in the bill.
HB490 is currently being reviewed by lawmakers. If approved, it could change sports betting and college athletics in Alabama in a big way. Stay tuned for updates!
