House Democrat Counters the Bogdanoff-Fresen Gaming Effort

State Rep. Joe Abruzzo, D-Wellington, has filed a bill to counter the legislation proposed that would create a state gaming commission and allow up to three 5-star resort casinos.

Abruzzos bill authorizes the governor to extend the length of the compact between the state and Florida Seminoles and allow the tribe to offer banked card games, roulette and craps.

Abruzzo told the Palm Beach Post he opposes the destination resort bill because its 10 percent tax rate is too low, as is the $50 million application fee. Read more here.

In the gaming bills, HB 487 and SB 710, filed by Sen. Ellyn Bogdanoff, R-Fort Lauderdale, and Rep. Erik Fresen, R-Miami, the three casinos would be required to pay 10 percent of revenue to the state. Existing pari-mutuels are required to pay 35 percent of revenues to the state.

Unlike the Bogdanoff-Fresen effort, Abruzzo doesnt have a Senate companion for his bill.