Ryan Hall

1 week ago | cbs42.com | Ryan Hall

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WIAT) — According to state Sen. Bobby Singleton, D-Greensboro, Greene County has legally offered parimutuel betting since 1973. That is because of a local constitutional amendment that was passed years ago. Now, Singleton wants to update that statute. He said he hopes to bring more revenue into the county. “If all the lights go out in Greene County on gaming, these are the only lights that can be on if you can picture that,” Singleton said.

1 week ago | cbs42.com | Ryan Hall

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WIAT) — Some in the Alabama Legislature believe more can be done to curb smoking among Alabama’s children. In a new bill filed by Rep. Barbara Drummond, D-Mobile, new standards would be put into place for businesses selling vapes, specifically requiring gas stations and other retailers to purchase licenses to sell those products. It would also put in programs to deter tobacco exposure to students. “I’m a Sunday School teacher,” Drummond said.

1 week ago | cbs42.com | Ryan Hall

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WIAT) — State Sen. Keith Kelley (R-Anniston) said the U.S. was founded upon the Ten Commandments given in the Old Testament, and he wants to make sure that history is told. There are some people, however, who largely disagree. Kelley’s bill would require the Ten Commandments to be put in common areas — like hallways or entrances — of schools. Kelley said they used to be taught not too long ago in schools.

1 week ago | cbs42.com | Ryan Hall

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WIAT) — Lawmakers are cracking down on THC in the state of Alabama. A bill passed in the House aims to put a limit on who can buy hemp drinks and CBD gummies. According to Rep. Andy Whitt (R-Harvest), it’s about protecting children in the state of Alabama. Harvest said hemp drinks and other products can currently be found in convenience stores across the state. If Whitt’s bill is signed into law, they may be a little harder to find.

1 week ago | cbs42.com | Ryan Hall

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WIAT) — Strong debate rang out inside the chambers of the House of Representatives Thursday. It’s all about a bill they ultimately passed, allowing the Alabama Farmers Federation to offer health plans to its members. They would be able to cover things such as prescriptions and doctor’s visits. But how much oversight does the farm bureau need? “It’s quite shady,” said Rep. Juandalynn Givan (D-Birmingham). “This is real shady business right here.