Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley is trying to clear the way for VictoryLand bingo casino and others to reopen.
Bentley signed an executive order today, saying local law enforcement should be the primary enforcer of gambling laws. He rescinded the first executive order he gave after taking office in 2011 that directed the responsibility to the attorney general's office
The decision comes as the attorney general's office is appealing a judge's order to return seized machines to VictoryLand by Nov. 16 because other casinos continued to operate.
Bentley said the court ruling raised concern about the "unequal enforcement" of Alabama gambling laws.
The surprise move is the latest twist in the state's long running legal battle over the legality of the slot machine look-alikes.
The Alabama Crimson Tide faces LSU this Saturday. Tuscaloosa businesses are expecting an economic boost during the game day weekend.
The rivalry between the two teams has local tourism boosters expecting a packed weekend. Another factor is that both schools are within driving distance of each other.
Jay Kasten is the Director of Sports with Tuscaloosa Tourism. He says more than one hundred and forty thousand people will be watching the game in town.
“This will be huge weekend for our hotels, pretty much all of them will be full Friday and Saturday, and then from that, with all of these people in here, they will definitely overflow into our restaurants and some of our other bars certainly will benefit, and a lot of the retail shopping centers will benefit.”
Excitement might be heightened over word that the College Football Playoff committee named LSU number two among the top four teams. The Crimson Tide is number four.
After a two-and-a-half-year wait the Kentuck Art Center will be reopening for Art Night. The renovated building features a new interior and exterior look that includes a staircase and upgraded courtyard.
Exa Skinner is the program manager for the Kentuck Art Center. She says tonight will be a special event for the art center.
“There all big events for us but this one is going to be very special not only is it a chance for people to see the new building but it’s our soft opening we will actually have a big grand opening in February.”
The Art night will feature festival artist Miz Thang, world renowned blues singer Debbie Bond, and local vendors.