A bill to ban Internet sweepstakes cafes and arcades offering patrons electronic games for prizes probably is a day away from passage in the Florida House.
Nevertheless, a ripple of remorse ran through the House Thursday before the bill,HB 155, was advanced to its deciding vote. That should come on Friday, with the Senate's sometime next week.
But legislators generally treat bills that affect business in Florida with considerable caution. And some representatives on Thursday acknowledged that they should "slow the train down" and make sure there are no "unintended consequences" -- as there were last year when both chambers unanimously passed an international driving permit law that already has had a negative effect on tourism.
Coconut Creek Democrat Jim Waldman, lone dissenter when the bill came before the House Gaming Committee, said he wanted the measure further vetted by a tax and finance committee to consider all consequences. He said the thought of putting hundreds, perhaps thousands, of people out of work, was sobering and worth the extra consideration.
He said he worried the legislation could inadvertently embroil businesses like Chuck E. Cheese and Dave & Busters -- businesses vital to Florida's economy.
Bill sponsor Carlos Trujillo, R-Miami, argued that his bill only clarifies existing law so there will be no mistake for law enforcement. Internet cafe electronic games have always been illegal under Florida law, he said. And the House agreed.
Reach Nancy Smith at nsmith@sunshinestatenews.com or at (850) 727-0859.
