Seminole Tribe vows to kill bill for more non-Indian gaming

Monday, November 7, 2011  

The Seminole Tribe of Florida says it will work to defeat a bill that authorizes three non-Indian casinos.

The tribe signed a Class III gaming compact with the state in 2010. It requires the tribe to share about $250 million a year for the first five years, and more in subsequent years.

But the revenue sharing ends if the state allows an expansion of non-Indian gaming. “We will vigorously fight against any attack on our compact with the state,” Chairman Jim Billie told Sunshine State News.

“We urge Florida legislators to step forward in support of our compact and refuse to pass any legislation that violates contractual agreements with the Seminole Tribe," Billie said.

Reaction to the bill has been mixed and some lawmakers have said it won't pass in its current form.

Get the Story:
Seminole Tribe Vows to Fight Destination Casino Bill at Legislature (Sunshine State News 11//6)
Florida Casino Bill Could Face Long Odds (Sunshine State News 11//5)
Q&A: Erik Fresen and Ellyn Bogdanoff Discuss Their Casino Bill (Sunshine State News 11//5)

An Opinion:
Editorial: Casino bill stirs debate, faces long odds (The South Florida Sun-Sentinel 11/5)

Related Stories:
Seminole Tribe pays twice as much as non-Indian facilities (11/4)
Column: Casino expansion must address Seminole compact (11/3)
License awarded for non-Indian gaming facility in Florida (11/1)
Bill to authorize non-Indian gaming breaks Seminole deal (10/27)