Florida Reaches New Gambling Agreement with Seminole Tribe

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has reached an agreement with the state’s Seminole Tribe that would expand gambling in the state, including the introduction of legalized sports betting.

The tribe would be allowed to offer sports gambling at its casinos in South Florida and near Tampa and will be allowed to license horse tracks, jai-alai frontons and former dog tracks to accept such wagers on its behalf for a share of the income, the Republican governor announced.

The tribe will also be allowed to introduce craps and roulette at its seven casinos, including the popular Hard Rock near Fort Lauderdale. The state would get at least $2.5 billion from the tribe over the first five years and at least $6 billion by 2030. DeSantis, in a statement, said he expects the pact to create 2200 new jobs.

“This historic compact expands economic opportunity, tourism, and recreation, and bolsters the fiscal success of our state in one fell swoop for the benefit of all Floridians and Seminoles alike. Our agreement establishes the framework to generate billions in new revenue and untold waves of positive economic impact,” DeSantis said.

“The Seminole Tribe of Florida is committed to a mutually beneficial gaming compact with the State of Florida,” Marcellus Osceola Jr., the tribe’s chairman, said.