Seminole Gambling Deal Backed By Business Groups In Florida

Expanded casino gambling in the state of Florida is receiving heavy support from two groups that could benefit greatly from more tourism in the state. The Florida Restaurant Lodging Association and the Florida Retail Association are both in favor of the gambling compact Governor Crist signed back in 2007 with the Seminole Indians.

"The economic benefits from ratifying the Seminole Compact would not be limited to the Seminole Tribe of Florida, but would ripple across all of Florida's economy,' said Carol Dover, President and CEO of the Florida Restaurant Lodging Association.

Although the original agreement reached with the Seminoles would have given them exclusivity for table games such as blackjack and baccarat, legislators are thinking along different lines. The state Senate is proposing a complete overhaul of the gaming laws in Florida.

Under the Senate plan, the Seminoles would receive the rights to roulette, craps, blackjack, and other popular table games. It would bring full scale casino gambling to the state and instantly make Florida one of the top vacation destinations in the country.

The House plan is much more scaled back and aimed towards equality for pari-mutuels that are currently operating card room on an uneven playing field. The pari-mutuels would be allowed to raise betting limits and expand operating hours, and the Seminoles would lose the rights to blackjack and baccarat.

The two groups that are in favor of the expanded gambling are searching for ways to help out their industries. Retail businesses have struggled because of the economy, and the hospitality industry in general has also been hurt. Expanded gambling could bring people back to Florida, which will boost revenue both industries.

April 14, 2009
Posted By April Gardner
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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