"Twenty-three years ago, proponents sold voters on the Florida Lottery by pledging that revenues generated by state-run gambling would be a boon to public education. But Floridians soon discovered that lottery proceeds often simply replaced state general revenue funding for schools.

Last week, Gov. Charlie Crist used public education to tout legislation that enables him to negotiate an expansion of casino gambling. The bill gives Crist until Aug. 31 to negotiate a deal with the Seminole Tribe to expand gambling at seven casinos.

The bill, Crist said, "will provide much needed revenue that can help us develop world-class schools throughout the Sunshine State."

Crist wants a guaranteed annual payment from the tribe of $150 million per year. For perspective, consider that the the state's K-12 finance program approaches $18 billion."

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Editorial: Jackpot dreams (The Gainesville Sun 6/24)