A new measure seeks to make running illegal gambling operations in the state more difficult
Florida officials are pushing for tougher penalties on illegal gambling operations, arguing that current misdemeanor charges are not strong enough to deter offenders. Attorney General James Uthmeier urged lawmakers to elevate unlicensed gambling offenses to felonies after another major case surfaced, this time involving a county sheriff and his wife, who were allegedly tied to an illicit gaming business. He said the profits from these operations far outweigh the consequences under existing law.
Uthmeier warned that illegal gambling venues often attract other criminal activity, including money laundering and trafficking. He said operators can make millions while facing only “a slap on the wrist,” sending the wrong message to both criminals and communities. Stronger penalties, he argued, would help curb the rapid spread of illegal arcades across the state.
Florida’s large retiree population has helped fuel demand for slot-style gaming, but legal machines are limited to Seminole Tribe casinos and designated counties in South Florida. This restriction has created a market for unregulated gambling rooms offering modern slot terminals without oversight. Unlike legal casinos, these operations are not required to meet payout standards, with some machines reportedly returning as little as 18%.
Law enforcement has shut down several multimillion-dollar gambling rings, yet many operators quickly reestablish their businesses because the risk is so low. Uthmeier said communities face safety concerns and consumer protection issues when these venues operate unchecked.
A previous attempt to upgrade illegal gambling charges to felonies stalled in the Florida House earlier this year. However, lawmakers are preparing to revisit the matter when the Legislature reconvenes in January. State Sen. Jennifer Bradley and Rep. Dana Trabulsy have already prefiled bills that would classify running an illegal gambling business as a third-degree felony, carrying a potential prison sentence of up to five years.
