Florida Gambling Compact Good For Both Sides, Says Editorial

A local paper says resolving the differences over Florida's proposed tribal gambling pact would benefit both the state and Seminole tribal gaming.

While both state and tribal negotiators stand firm on Florida casino gambling positions and wait for the other side to blink, an editorial in the Ft. Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel points out that resolving the issue is to the benfit of both sides. Both Seminole representatives and the Florida legislature are sticking to their guns over what the paper says "should have been an amicable arrangement that provides enough benefits to keep both the state of Florida and the Seminole Tribe contented."

Tribal leaders are upset about the changes the lawmakers wrought in the agreement they had worked out with Governor Charlie Crist, only to be informed by the state Supreme Court that Crist was exceeding his authority. The legislated bill raises Seminole payments from a base of $100 million annually to $150 million, but also doesn't protect future exclusivity on card games and slots outside South Florida.

If a deal isn't reached by the end of this month, the legislature will withdraw its offer and look to federal regulators to shut down blackjack and other card games currently being played at Seminole tribal casinos. Lack of a gambling compact will mean relying on a decision by the National Indian Gaming Council.

If the case is allowed to go that far, Florida can probably count on losing any money from the Seminoles, says tribal attorney Barry Richard. On the other hand, not only will the tribe lose its slot exclusivity for most of the state, but it may lose its card gambling as well.

"Florida is on the verge of reaching a historic pact and a peaceful accord with gaming," states the paper. "The alternative, an ongoing legal struggle that will drag on in the courts, should not be an option."