Former Anti-Gambling Lawmaker Seeking Full-Scale Casinos In Florida

Fort Lauderdale legislator Ellyn Bogdanoff spent years of her political life fighting against gambling expansion in her state of Florida. Now, Bogdanoff believes the time has come for full-scale casino gambling in the state.

Bogdanoff is behind the Florida Gaming Equalization Act, along with Las Vegas casino developer Sheldon Adelson. The pair have hit the trail in Tallahassee to promote a plan that would bring full-scale casinos to all areas of Florida.

The Fort Lauderdale lawmakers is afraid that the Seminole Indian tribe is controlling the gambling industry in the Sunshine State, and Bogdanoff believes the time has come for the state to take the industry back.

In the event that full-scale casino resorts are approved by lawmakers, over 7,000 jobs could be created for Floridians. In addition, millions of dollars would be made in tax revenue, and that is not to mention that amount that could made through the tourism industry.

For years, Donald Trump and other casino developers have been purchasing land in South Florida, preparing for the possibility of Las Vegas type casino resorts. Up until now, lawmakers have frowned on the idea of the big resort casinos, but the recent negotiations with the Seminoles regarding a gaming compact has opened many eyes to the possibilities.

Lawmakers in Florida are expected to take up the issue of full-scale casino resorts in February. While the support is growing for this type of gambling, there are still those legislators who oppose such a plan.

Adelson has been giving campaign contributions to Governor Charlie Crist's run for the US Senate. Adelson also has hired lobbyists in Tallahassee to promote the idea of Las Vegas type casino resorts in Florida.

January 27, 2010
Posted By April Gardner
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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