Floridians win in gaming defeat

Editorial

The decision by two state lawmakers on Friday to concede defeat, at least for now, of legislation that would further expand casino gambling in Florida is good for the state's family-friendly image and residents who value their hard-earned money.

Florida already has too much gambling — from Seminole Tribe of Florida casinos, to poker rooms at parimutuel facilities, to Florida Lottery vending machines prominently displayed in many stores, among other outlets. The Legislature's energy and time should be spent seeking less-destructive ways to create jobs and raise revenue.

Rep. Erik Fresen, R-Miami, the House sponsor of legislation that would allow up to three resort casinos in Miami-Dade and Broward counties — and, conceivably, elsewhere in Florida — removed his bill from consideration after it was clear he didn't have the votes among members of a key House subcommittee.

Whatever their motivation, committee members' reluctance also meant the Senate version — which was worse — was blocked from going anywhere this year.

The Senate version would have opened the door to major casino gaming — including slots — at dog and horse tracks in South Florida to appease the parimutuel industry.

Further ramping up gambling in Florida could prove disastrous. Increased gaming means more addiction and financial hardships among people who cannot resist seeking an easy score. Other businesses are harmed because visitors tend to remain on-site at gambling facilities. And communities suffer from more crime.

No Casinos, a group that fought the legislation, issued a telling report a couple of days before the House subcommittee was to consider the bill. It forecast an 8 percent to 12 percent increase in robberies, thefts and other crime if two destination casinos were built in Miami-Dade, and the cost to taxpayers to imprison those responsible for 10 years would be $3 billion. The report alone makes a compelling case against more gambling.

In addition, allowing more casino gambling would jeopardize the state's revenue-generating compact with the Seminoles. Just this year, the tribe is to pay the state $233 million for exclusive rights to certain gaming in Florida.

This is a high-stakes fight, and gambling proponents aren't likely to walk away. Barring a change of heart, supporters will continue their push to expand gambling in Florida when the Legislature convenes next year. The effort should meet the same fate as it did last week.

Florida's local businesses and international family-friendly image should not be sacrificed for this get-rich-quick scam.