Florida Says Farewell to Internet Cafes

Gov. Rick Scott signed legislation banning Internet cafes in Florida Wednesday.

The Legislature did the right thing to crack down on illegal gaming operators," Scott said. "We look forward to turning our focus back on jobs and education in this session.

"We have two key priorities a $2,500 teacher pay raise and the elimination of the sales tax on manufacturing equipment. These two priorities are a part of our agenda to keep our economy growing and creating jobs and a highly trained workforce. We have heard lots of talk in support of these priorities. Now is the time for action.

The Florida Chamber of Commerce, which has opposed gaming in Florida, supported the governor's actions.

Floridas quality of life is a competitive advantage, and today, Florida took another step in the right direction toward protecting this important pillar of Floridas economy when the Internet cafe bill was signed into law," saidDavid Hart, executive vice president of the Chamber.Expanded gambling and Internet cafes is not an economic strategy; its a bad bet for Florida.

"The Florida Chamber thanks Floridas elected leaders, including Sen. John Thrasher, R-St. Augustine, and Rep. Carlos Trujillo, R-Doral, for their leadership in banning strip-mall casinos. Banning Internet cafes will improve Floridas quality of life and build on Floridas competitiveness.

The move could also sweep away some senior arcades.

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