Blackjack tables at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Tampa, Florida. Photo from Facebook
The Seminole Tribe reached a new Class III gaming compact that promises $3 billion to the state of Florida but columnist Howard Sturtz points out some of the obstacles facing the deal:
On the surface, the new gambling compact between the Seminole Indian Tribe and Florida Gov. Rick Scott looks like a win-win for both sides. The state is guaranteed $3 billion over the next seven years from the tribe. In exchange, the Seminoles will be allowed to operate craps and roulette tables at the tribe's seven casinos. The agreement limits competition. As written, it prohibits another destination gaming resort from being built in Florida while allowing pari-mutuel racing facilities in South Florida's Miami-Dade and Broward counties to add blackjack tables. Seems straightforward, right? Remember, this is Florida, where gaming expansion is far from is simple. State lawmakers are required to approve the compact. Observers said the deal will be one of the most heavily lobbied issues in the 60-day legislative session, which began last Tuesday.Get the Story:
Inside Gaming by Howard Stutz: When it concerns casino expansion in Florida, nothing is simple (The Las Vegas Review-Journal 1/17)
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