Judge rules that gambling pact between Florida and Seminole Tribe can move forward
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Forbes.com reported today, via the Associated Press, that a US Federal Judge has ruled against Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum and his attempt to block a recently signed gambling agreement between the Seminole Tribe and the state of Florida.
The root of McCollum’s complaint is that Florida Governor Charlie Crist lacked the necessary authority to enter into the deal. Excerpt:
McCollum has said he was trying to prevent gambling from starting and then later stopping if the Supreme Court agrees with Rubio and Pruitt. He did not immediately comment on Friedman’s decision.
The compact allows Las Vegas-style slots and card games like blackjack and baccarat at the Seminole’s seven casinos. The state would get $50 million immediately and $100 million guaranteed in the first year. In the second year, the state is guaranteed $125 million and at least $150 million in the third year. Following that, the amount depends on revenues - but everyone involved in the negotiations said it will quickly add up to billions.
