Florida lawmakers warn governor on compact

Tuesday, September 11, 2007  

Key Republican lawmakers in Florida warned Gov. Charlie Crist (R) not to negotiate a Class III compact with the Seminole Tribe that goes beyond slot machines.

House Speaker Marco Rubio and other top lawmakers said the tribe is only entitled to the same games that are permitted under state law. They also said the Legislature must approve the final compact.

The move affects the tribe's push for table games like blackjack and poker. The tribe was offering $50 million immediately and a minimum of $100 million a year for those games.

The state is facing a deadline to negotiate a compact. The Interior Department says it will step in if the state doesn't act.

Get the Story:
Legislators oppose deal to allow Vegas-style gambling at Seminole casinos (The South Florida Sun-Sentinel 9/11)
pwday
House leaders blast gambling (The Orlando Sentinel 9/11)
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Seminole Gambling Deal Faces Opposition (The Lakeland Ledger 9/11)
Gambling roadblock ahead (The St. Petersburg Times 9/11)
Rubio warns Crist on card games (The Palm Beach Post 9/11)