Editorial: Death of non-Indian gaming bill is good for Florida

Tuesday, February 7, 2012  

"The decision by two state lawmakers on Friday to concede defeat, at least for now, of legislation that would further expand casino gambling in Florida is good for the state's family-friendly image and residents who value their hard-earned money.

Florida already has too much gambling — from Seminole Tribe of Florida casinos, to poker rooms at parimutuel facilities, to Florida Lottery vending machines prominently displayed in many stores, among other outlets. The Legislature's energy and time should be spent seeking less-destructive ways to create jobs and raise revenue.

Rep. Erik Fresen, R-Miami, the House sponsor of legislation that would allow up to three resort casinos in Miami-Dade and Broward counties — and, conceivably, elsewhere in Florida — removed his bill from consideration after it was clear he didn't have the votes among members of a key House subcommittee."

Get the Story:
Editorial: Floridians win in gaming defeat (The Tampa Tribune 2/7)

More Opinions:
Editorial: Indecision roulette (The Miami Herald 2/7)
Editorial: Ban Florida's Internet gambling cafes (The Tampa Bay Times 2/7)

Related Stories:
Bill to authorize non-Indian casinos in Florida taken off table (2/6)
Seminole Tribe welcomes public to $150M casino expansion (2/3)
Voters approve expansions of non-Indian gaming in Florida (2/1)
Seminole Tribe battling some big players in gaming debate (1/31)
Seminole Tribe hails state's legal opinion over slot machines (1/18)