Voters approve expansions of non-Indian gaming in Florida

Wednesday, February 1, 2012  

Voters in two Florida counties approved slot machines on Tuesday despite a legal opinion from the state attorney general that placed doubts on their efforts.

Last month, Attorney General Pam Bondi (R) said approving slot machines outside of south Florida would violate the Class III gaming compact with the Seminole Tribe. Gadsden and Washington counties are in northern Florida.

Bondi also said the counties would need to seek a change in state law before pursuing slot machines. That hasn't happened yet so a lawsuit is expected.

The two counties want to authorize slot machines at non-Indian race tracks

Get the Story:
Voters approve slot machines in two rural counties, but legal battle looms (The Miami Herald 2/1)

Florida AG Opinion:
Department of Business and Professional Regulation regarding slot machine referenda and Section 551.102(4), Florida Statutes (January 12, 2012)

Related Stories:
Seminole Tribe battling some big players in gaming debate (1/31)
Seminole Tribe hails state's legal opinion over slot machines (1/18)