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Florida gambing expansion expected7 August 2007FLORIDA -- As reported by the Miami Herald: "...In closed-door negotiations with the Seminole Tribe, Gov. Charlie Crist has offered the tribe permission to run Las Vegas-style slot machines at its casinos as well as the exclusive right to run Las Vegas-style card games, like blackjack and baccarat, according to people close to the administration. "In return, the state would get something it has long coveted: a piece of the tribe's action from gambling. The tribe pays no state tax because it is a sovereign nation. "Upon legislative ratification of the deal, the state's share could begin at $50 million in the first year and rise to $75 million in the second year and $100 million in the third, the sources said. The tribe, which runs a $1 billion-plus gambling empire that includes the Hard Rock casino near Hollywood, also would pay the state an additional percentage based on the growth of its revenue from gaming. "The prospect of giving the Indians more than slot machines, however, may trigger demand for more games elsewhere in the state. Sen. Steve Geller, a Hallandale Beach Democrat and an expert on gaming law, said he already has spoken to the governor about offering the state's parimutuels -- dog and horse tracks and jai-alai frontons -- the same options as the Seminole Tribe. "...Crist said last week that his top priority in negotiations with the Seminoles is to get as much money as possible..." |