When state lawmakers approved the original 2010 gaming compact with the Seminole Tribe, they promised Florida residents it would serve as a firewall against the further expansion of gambling. The proposed renewal of the compact is a complete violation of that trust.

Even the notoriously pro-gambling South Florida Sun-Sentinel recognizes this deal will expand gambling. Their editorial in today’s edition calls the compact, “a coup for gambling lobbyists,” and notes that, “There is no denying that the agreement continues the gambling-creep that has affected Florida since voters cleared the way for the lottery in 1986 and racinos with slot machines in 2004.”

This compact is a bad deal for Florida’s residents, businesses and economy. We encourage Florida legislators to side with Florida voters who have consistently and overwhelmingly rejected this path for their state.

Below is a brief compilation of some of the news coverage regarding the compact with links if would would like to read the article online.

Anti-casino advocates sour on new gambling deal – Orlando Sentinel: “We think anytime you leave open the possibility of megacasinos … that would certainly be something that would hurt our family-friendly brand,” (No Casinos President John) Sowinski said.”

Editorial: Expanded gambling not worth more cash from Seminoles – Tampa Bay Times:“But this agreement significantly benefits the Seminoles, expands gambling in the state rather than restricts it and offers a path for new casinos to be built in South Florida. It looks like a bad bet for Florida, and lawmakers should not be blinded by the big dollar signs.”

Seminole compact raises prospect of gambling war – PoliticoFlorida.com: “We’re disappointed that the compact provides for expansion of gambling both on and off tribal reservations,” he (No Casinos President John Sowinski) said, explaining that the original compact in 2010 was sold “as a way to stop the expansion of gambling.”

Florida gaming deal faces uncertain odds in legislature – Miami Herald: “The anti-gambling group, No Casinos, also said it could not support the proposal because the compact was originally sold as a “firewall” to expanding gambling in the state.”