Compact negotiations with Seminole Tribe on hold

Tuesday, July 28, 2009  

The Seminole Tribe and Florida Gov. Charlie Crist (R) have only met once to discuss a Class III compact, The Miami Herald reports.

The talks were authorized by the Florida Legislature. But both sides are concerned that lawmakers were too restrictive in setting the terms of the deal.

"What's at stake here is whether we are going to have limited gaming in Florida," George LeMieux, the negotiator for Crist, told the Herald. "If we do not approve a compact, I'm concerned the future of Florida is casinos in every part of our state."

The tribe reportedly wants assurances that it will retain the exclusive right to operate slot machines. A key lawmaker said the Legislature won't change the terms of the deal.

Under the law, the tribe and the state have until August 31 to reach an agreement.

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Seminole gambling deal in Florida on hold (The Miami Herald 7/28)