Gambling interests gather forces ahead of next legislative cycle by Gray Rohrer, 09/17/2013
Gambling interests are again lining up their chips in expectation of legislation action on gaming during the upcoming 2014 session of the Legislature. File photo by Derek Green.
Gambling interests will once again push for large casinos and a stronger state regulatory body next year, but the only sure thing is a lot of money will be on the line.Casino conglomerates pushed a much-hyped bill (HB 487) in 2012 that would have allowed three casino resort hotels in South Florida, but the bill failed to gain traction in the House amid heavy lobbying for and against the bill.
Now — as lawmakers await the results of a gaming study, legislative panels begin convening next week, and the Senate Gaming Committee embarks on meetings across the state next month — gambling and anti-gambling forces alike are increasing their lobbying muscle and political donations.
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