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House Committee To Review Seminole Deal

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By CATHERINE DOLINSKI

cdolinski@tampatrib.com

Published: December 10, 2008

TALLAHASSEE - State lawmakers have formed a panel to dig into the details of the state's gambling compact with the Seminole Tribe.
House Speaker Ray Sansom announced the formation of the new House committee on Tuesday, which he said would "thoroughly review and provide an opportunity for public comment" on the deal that Gov. Charlie Crist signed late last year to allow the Seminoles to expand gaming at their casinos.

The Florida Supreme Court voided the compact in July, finding that Crist had exceeded his authority by not involving lawmakers, who filed suit in protest.

Heading the House's new committee will be Rep. Bill Galvano, R-Bradenton, and Rep. Larry Cretul, R-Ocala.

"This is definitely not a committee designed to rubber-stamp the compact," Galvano said. "This is a committee to vet the issue."

The compact that Crist negotiated allows the Seminoles to offer casino-style slot machines. It also gives them exclusive rights to offer "banked" card games such as blackjack, in exchange for a slice of the profits.

Since federal law governs tribal gaming, the Seminoles continue to offer the card games banned everywhere else in Florida.

The continuing card games concern Galvano, who said the panel will investigate that decision by the tribe. The group will also delve into the true worth of the exclusive gaming rights the tribe received.

Barry Richard, the tribe's attorney, said he is encouraged by the development. "I'm hoping - I'm confident - that when they review all of the facts, they'll agree this was a good thing for the state of Florida," he said.

Reporter Catherine Dolinski can be reached at (850) 222-8382.

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