Florida's House Commerce Committee advanced CS/CS/HB 189 after its final House committee review, according to the report. The bill covers gambling enforcement, internet gambling and sports wagering, among other areas, and lists an effective date of 1 October 2026; a separate Senate illegal-gaming bill is also advancing.
The proposal could change Florida's gambling rules and enforcement framework if enacted.
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It was reported that a newly enacted Florida public nuisance law gave officials another means of pursuing illegal gambling. Attorney General James Uthmeier and FGCC said illegal slot machines remained widespread.
It was reported that Florida non-tribal casino slot revenue declined 3.4% annually to $53.8m in June. Only two of the eight casinos recorded annual increases, with Big Easy Casino reporting the largest percentage gain.
Florida's Gaming Control Commission marked its fourth anniversary in July 2026, reporting nearly 11,000 illegal slot machines seized and more than $23 million in illegal gambling proceeds since its formation. The commission said it closed 184 illegal gambling arcades and made 177 arrests in the past year, while its pari-mutuel division collected more than $3 billion over four years.
Florida's non-tribal casinos generated $60.7m in slots revenue in May, down 3% year on year, according to Florida Gaming Control Commission figures. Magic City Casino had the highest monthly revenue at $12.9m, down 5.3%, while three of the state's eight casinos recorded annual increases.
Regulators from Florida, Massachusetts and Nevada described challenges in tackling illegal online gambling at a recent industry panel. Florida Gaming Control Commission law enforcement director Carl Herold said enforcement has shifted towards more technology-focused methods, while Nevada Gaming Commission vice-chairman Brian Krolicki called for international cooperation. IAGR managing director Kevin Mullally said the association plans an international awareness week later this year.