The possibilities of expanding gambling in Florida increased this week when a House council approved a bill to allow up to 1,000 video gaming machines in some of the state’s dog and horseracing venues. Last week, the Senate passed a new legislation that eases restrictions on video games of chance, like bingo.
The complete support of both chambers surprised Sen. Jim King, R-Jacksonville. “I was amazed,” he said. “In a matter of moments, the bill was up and the bill was out with, I think, eight or nine negative votes. I've never seen anything like it.” Senator King, who supports the devices, says he believes they are the key to give Floridians a relief concerning property taxes.
“It's almost like a perfect storm,” King explained. “When you look at a couple of billion dollars that you and your counties are going to get, and most of the money comes from tourists and people who are going to gamble anyway, why not?”
Pursuant to the new bill, video machines could be in operation for no more than 16 hours a day. The machines could be even used if no races are taking place in the facilities. However, local officials would have the option of extending the operation hours under the House proposal.
The possibilities of expanding gambling in Florida increased this week when a House council approved a bill to allow up to 1,000 video gaming machines in some of the state’s dog and horseracing venues. Last week, the Senate passed a new legislation that eases restrictions on video games of chance, like bingo.