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The new Instant Races consoles at the Birmingham Race Course is causing a stir as many are convinced that it is the tracks way of sneaking slot machines into Alabama.  Among those convince are Governor Bob Riley.  Expanding gambling in Alabama with slot machines has been on the table in the Alabama legislature for at least two years and has made absolutely no progress.

Governor Bob Riley is determined to keep it that way.  He recently signed an Executive Order to eradicate all forms of gambling in the state of Alabama.  In order to achieve his goal, Riley assembled the Alabama Gambling Task Force. 

On the topic of the Instant Races consoles which resemble slot machines more in appearance than in function, the governor said, “I believe if it sounds like a slot machine, looks like a slot machine, takes money and pays money out it's a slot machine.”

Attorney General Troy King, who approved the use of the Instant Race terminal at the Birmingham Race Course, disagrees with the Governor.  The two have very different definition of slot machines which sparked a serious debate between them on the topic last month. 

King has a much more liberal view on gambling devices in the state and believes that Alabama law does not forbid all types of gambling devices, particularly ones involving skill.  One of the main characteristics of slot machines is that they are games based completely on chance.

King’s liberal attitude toward gambling has lead Governor Riley to appoint District Attorney David Barber as the front man in the charge against illegal gambling in Alabama.

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