Indian Gaming

Lawmakers in Florida are waiting on the outcome of Class III gaming compact talks between Gov. Rick Scott (R) and the Seminole Tribe.

The talks are secret and neither side has offered details. But Scott is reportedly looking for more gaming revenues from the tribe in exchange for regional exclusivity.

“The three elements of the negotiation are going to be continued exclusivity, potential expansion of product and revenue. And it will all kind of snuggle together at the end,” Sen. Garrett Richter (R), the chairman of the Senate Gaming Committee, told The News Service of Florida. “I do believe that the governor is in search of more revenue for the state than we currently receive. How he negotiates and what he negotiates for more revenue is up to him.”

As of this month, the tribe has shared $1 billion with the state under a compact that was signed in 2010. Scott could offer more Class III games -- like roulette and craps -- in hopes of getting more money.

It's not clear when a deal will be announced. The current legislative session ends May 2 and lawmakers must approve of a compact before it is sent to the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

In the meantime, Richter agreed to put a hold on legislation that would expand non-Indian gaming. And the House Speaker Will Weatherford (R) has said he won't move any gaming bills until talks are complete.

Get the Story:
Seminole Negotiations: Money, Exclusivity & Games (The News Service of Florida 3/20)
Before Florida expands gambling, Rick Scott must “seal the deal” with Seminole Tribe (Saintpetersblog 3/21)

Related Stories:
Governor worried about Seminole Tribe compact negotiations (3/20)