Florida Legislators Vote Down Casino Bill

Gambling News - January 17th, 2010 - Written By Glen

Throughout much of 2009, the Florida legislation had been deliberating over what to do with Seminole Casinos, what games they can have, and what portion of the revenue will goto the state. The legislation had killed the bill with a 17-0 vote.

Seminole Casinos had been operating some table games, including blackjack. These games are technically illegal under the current Florida law, and they may be abolished if no action is taken soon.

How to handle the Seminole tribe was one of the most difficult cases Florida had to contend with in 2009. Every time the issue had reached a near compromise, one side would turn to intransigence with their decision. The Seminoles held the money, while legislators held the law. The threat of federal interaction had loomed menacingly over both sides of the table.

Federal interdiction may ultimately arrive, coming from the National Indian Gaming Commission. A cease and desist order may be enacted, ordering the tribal casinos to shut down blackjack tables in the three casinos operating under the Seminole banner.

On the other hand, the NIGC can hold proceedings that would allow the blackjack tables to continue.

If the state manages to rule against the blackjack tables, Florida Online Gambling will be the only location for table games in the state. Florida has also been mulling over the idea of state operate casinos, giving players a choice that does not include Tribal interaction.