Seminoles Mulling Florida Gambling Deal, Eyeing Full Casinos
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Seminoles Mulling Florida Gambling Deal, Eyeing Full Casinos
The Seminole Indians in Florida have a decision to make regarding expanded gambling at their casinos. They can take a deal that lawmakers in the state have outlined, or they can hold out and let their gambling future be decided on a Federal level.
Governor Charlie Crist has been trying for several years to make a deal with the Seminoles that would expand gambling at their casinos, while giving the state a portion of the revenue generated. At first, lawmakers balked at the idea, but eventually they joined Crist in his efforts.
The problem now for the state is that full-scale casino gambling was being discussed as an option in the state Senate, and the Seminoles wrapped their arms around that idea. The deal they can approve does not include craps and roulette, thanks to the House which would not concede all casino games.
"There is a very strong possibility that the Seminoles turn their back on the current deal on the table," said one source with inside knowledge of the situation, "They (Seminoles) feel that they can win the rights to full-scale casino gambling Federally, so they are in no rush to sell themselves short."
Of course, there is always the chance that things do not go well for the Seminoles on a Federal level. That is what they are now weighing. Most likely, they will take the current deal and try to negotiate a few more perks for themselves.
State lawmakers have already said that no major concessions will be made. Craps and roulette seem out of the realm of possibility when it comes to the deal. They may, however, concede to allow blackjack at other Seminole casinos in the state.
The coming weeks will be telling, with our insider claiming the Seminoles are already planning a full expansion at both their Hard Rock and Coconut Creek casinos. The next move is theirs, as the state waits patiently.
June 21, 2009
Posted By Larry Rutherford
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com