Florida Senate Committee Approves Bill Expanding Seminole Tribe’s Gambling Exclusivity

Florida and further strengthen the tribe’s exclusive gaming rights.

Defining Internet Gambling and Legal Boundaries

slot machines and table games. The bill extends this definition to cover “internet sports wagering,” which could impact dual-currency betting models.

Under the proposed law, operating, promoting, or facilitating unauthorized online gambling would constitute a third-degree felony, while individual participation would be considered a second-degree misdemeanor.

Currently, the Seminole Tribe operates Florida’s only state-sanctioned online sportsbook, Hard Rock Bet. SB 1404 would effectively reinforce the tribe’s monopoly by explicitly banning online casino-style gambling outside of its compact with the state. Although the Seminole Tribe has not yet introduced online casino gaming, the legislation could pave the way for future expansions under their control.

During the committee hearing, Sen. Simon underscored the growing concern over illicit gambling operations exploiting regulatory loopholes. “Illegal gambling in Florida is a growing crisis,” he stated, citing the proliferation of unlicensed gaming venues. These venues, often masquerading as adult arcades, reportedly operate with little legal consequence due to weak penalties.

The Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) has received numerous complaints about unregulated gambling, and its acting Executive Director, Ross Marshman, voiced for the bill. The proposed legislation aims to impose stricter enforcement mechanisms, reducing the influence of unlawful gambling enterprises across the state.

Ethical Standards and Regulatory Integrity

An amendment to SB 1404 seeks to strengthen ethical guidelines for FGCC officials. The revised provision mandates a two-year waiting period before commissioners or staff can accept employment in the gambling industry. This amendment follows scrutiny surrounding former FGCC Executive Director Louis Trombetta, who took a position at FanDuel shortly after leaving his regulatory post.

Rep. John Snyder has introduced a similar measure in the Florida House, emphasizing the need for impartiality in regulatory decision-making. “Any time you have a regulator in a position to make significant decisions on the industry, I think it’s important they sit on the bench for a little bit before they get back into it,” Snyder explained.

Broader Legislative Landscape and Next Steps

SB 1404 is part of a larger legislative push to curb unauthorized online gambling. Similar bills in both the Florida House and Senate aim to tighten gambling laws, with some measures proposing stricter penalties for insider betting and illegal gaming ments. However, none of these related bills have progressed as swiftly as SB 1404.

With its approval from the Senate Regulated Industries Committee, SB 1404 now advances to two additional committees for further review. If ed, the bill would reinforce Florida’s commitment to regulating online gambling while maintaining the Seminole Tribe’s exclusive gaming rights.

Source:

‘’Florida Advances Bill to Restrict Online Gaming Exclusively to Seminole Tribe’’, news.worldcasinodirectory.com, March 31, 2025.