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Florida Senate Panel Approves Video Poker Bill25 March 2003TALLAHASSEE, Florida – As reported by the Tampa Tribune: "Republican state Sen. Alex Diaz de la Portilla hinted last week at ``political gamesmanship'' in the rejection of a House gambling bill. "On Monday, the Miami lawmaker fired back at the lower chamber, shepherding a bill that would allow video poker and other games through his Senate Committee on Regulated Industries by a 10-1 vote. "…Senate Bill 1920 would allow video lottery terminals in Florida's existing parimutuel sites - horse and dog racing tracks and jai alai frontons. The machines allow gamblers to play line-up games, traditional card games, poker and progressive games in which the jackpot accumulates. "…Video gambling is another issue that is sharply dividing the chambers of the Florida Legislature this session. House Speaker Johnnie Byrd, R-Plant City, opposes it, as does Republican Gov. Jeb Bush. The House companion bill to Diaz de la Portilla's proposal was rejected last week on a 6-3 party- line vote, with Democrats in the minority. "…But lobbyists representing the video gambling industry have been working the Legislature hard…" |