Gambling expansion in Florida rejected by Seminole tribe

June 15, 2009 - Written by Glen

Florida is the home of not only warm, sandy beaches, but also a thriving gambling community. The Seminole tribe is to thank for this, as they have provided us with gaming for a great deal of time. Now the state's legislature seeks to expand gambling. The Bill created, however, has been rejected by the lawyers responsible for the Seminole's welfare.

While lawmakers have approved of the Bill and just need governor Christ's signature, the Seminole tribe does not approve of the bill in its current form. They make their living through gambling, and this could impact their income. Last Thursday an attorney contacted the state to request they alter the Bill.

It was stated that the Tribe would negotiate, but they "couldn't live with it" according to Barry Richard, the Seminole's tribal attorney. Tax revenue has not been enough for the State of Florida, and the refusal of this Bill has put the state's budget in a tight spot. The education system has seen big cuts as of late, and this was a proposed method of bail out. Despite the need for increased revenue, lawmakers have said, essentially, take it or leave it. They do not want to negotiate this bill.

Bill Galvano, a state Representative, was quoted by the Miami Herald to think that they should "let the feds enforce" some sort of change if the Seminole's refused to accept the Bill in its current form.