By Alabama Public Radio
Montgomery, AL – Some state lawmakers say the state tourism agency is wasting taxpayers' money. The agency gave stacks of leather coasters to state legislators at a cost of almost $12,000. State Senator Bobby Denton says the agency wasted money that could have gone to tourist attractions like the Alabama Music Hall of Fame and the Motorsports Hall of Fame. Tourism officials, meanwhile, say they sent the coasters to legislators, so they'd have something to give to groups visiting the Statehouse. Tourism director Lee Sentell says the agency has given grants to attractions including the Music Hall of Fame. Sentell also says the agency supports all tourist attractions through the publicity material it distributes.