Growth in revenue could help gambling expansion in Florida

According to the Associated Press Agency, growth in gambling revenue in Florida could influence a debate on a bill that would expand gaming activities in the State by allowing casino and resort company Las Vagas Sands Corporation and Genting Group to compete in Florida.

Both companies are planning to open Vegas-style casinos in Miami-Dade and in the Broward counties, thus expanding the slot machines and table games offered by the Seminole Tribe of Florida’s casinos to include other games such as craps, roulette and keno. The Seminole Tribe currently operates in the state and contributes a percentage of its yearly revenue to the state. However, part of the state’s exclusive four-year deal with Tribe is due to expire next year. According to Andy Abboud, vice-president of government relations for Las Vegas Sands, ‘the Seminole Tribe’s success in its Hard Rock casinos in Tampa and Hollywood show the scope for gambling growth in the state”. Furthermore, the smaller Miccosukee Tribe casino outside Miami also recorded revenue growth of 23% in 2011, compared to 4.7% growth nationally. “It’s basically all there. You have some of the top casinos by poker table counts, and the Hard Rock are two of the most successful casinos in history”, he added. The Senate is also discussing another bill relying on the creation of a gambling authority.

Source iGamingBusiness