Gambling deal could lead to fewer greyhound races and more slots – WCTV

By: Mike Vasilinda; Capitol News Service April 27, 2017

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) For the first time since 2010, state lawmakers are increasing the odds a new gambling deal will emerge by the time they wrap up the legislative session. It could result in fewer greyhounds being raced and more slots in counties that have approved them.

Lawmakers are moving toward allowing dog tracks to stop racing greyhounds. But it is undecided whether county voters where dog tracks are located must first vote on this change.

Animal rights activists are elated.

Im confident that we'll pass those referendums, but there will be a delay. More dogs will be injured. More dogs will die, says Carey Thiel with Grey2K USA.

Gambling legislation is moving for the first time since 2010 because lawmakers fear a pending court ruling.

Lobbyist Ron Book says, Thats what in part is certainly pushing the House, the court decisions, and not wanting further expansion by judicial edict as opposed to conscious edict by the policy makers.

Lawmakers also want a quick decision because they face pressure from a proposed initiative that would allow citizens to make any future gambling changes.

Still on the table is whether eight counties where voters have already approved slots will get them. The Senate, which proposed the idea, is holding firm, but offered to reduce the number of machines to appease a reluctant House.

The Federal courts, they continue to take positions that expand gaming in Florida. And if we really want to curb gaming, it would make some sense to expand a little, says Rep. Jose Felix Diaz.

Naples-Ft. Myers dog track operator Izzy Havenick is hopeful.

Its the hardest thing to run a business when any day things could change. You dont know tomorrow whats going to be legal, you dont know two days down the road.

The legislation, as proposed, would also remove any legal questions about daily Fantasy sports games.

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Gambling deal could lead to fewer greyhound races and more slots - WCTV