House Seminole Gambling Bill Much Different Than Senate Proposal

Legislators in the state of Florida appear far from unified in their attempt to fix the Seminole gambling compact problem that has arose. The House and the Senate have vastly different believes on the solution to the problem.

Recently, a Senate Committee approved a Bill that would bring a widespread philosophical change to gambling in Florida. The Bill would expand gambling to the point where Florida could become one of the top casino destinations in the country.

The House, however, has other plans. A House Committee on Friday approved a Bill that would scale back the gambling taking place in the state. Card games such as blackjack and baccarat would have to leave the Seminole casinos that are now running the games.

It is unlikely the Seminoles would go along with any negotiations for a compact that would not include blackjack. The game has become the most popular at the Seminole Hard Rock Casino in Hollywood, and the Seminoles are too close to full scale casino gambling to accept such a fate.

The Senate Bill is much more appealing to the Seminoles. The tribe not only would be allowed to keep blackjack and baccarat, but they would also gain access to craps and roulette. In other words, full Vegas style casinos.

If Florida expands casino gambling, it would pose a major threat to places such as New Jersey and Connecticut. With the beaches and the weather in Florida, the state would almost instantly become casino gambling central on the East Coast of the US.

Governor Charlie Crist is in favor of expanded gambling in the state. He had already negotiated successfully a compact with the Seminoles, but it was voided by the state Supreme Court. Now legislators are trying their hand in the gambling arena.

April 3, 2009
Posted By Terry Goodwin
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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