Florida senator Clay Yarborough introduced a bill this week proposing amendments to state gambling laws, according to the report. The available text does not specify the proposed provisions.
Operators and investors cannot assess the bill’s potential effects because its proposed provisions are not specified.
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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.
Florida’s House Criminal Justice Subcommittee voted 13-4 to advance HB 189, which proposes tougher criminal penalties and expanded regulatory authority against illegal gambling. The bill now goes to the Commerce Committee before any potential House floor vote; sponsor Dana Trabulsy said she would consider concerns raised about its scope.
Florida lawmakers are due to meet from 13 January to 13 March, with tougher penalties for illegal gambling expected to be a focus, according to the report. HB 591 would revise state gambling laws and increase penalties; it follows the introduction of HB 189, which targets non-tribal online and land-based gambling, with an exception for daily fantasy sports.
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier urged lawmakers to raise the penalty for illegal gambling operations from a misdemeanour to a felony. He said the change would strengthen prosecution and cited links between such operations and other criminal activity; lawmakers would need to enact the change.
The Florida Gaming Control Commission targeted retail premises it described as illegal gambling establishments. The regulator worked with the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, Florida Highway Patrol and state alcohol and tobacco officials on searches.