Lawmakers continue to make changes, forcing new votes in the chambers
A gambling bill moving through the Florida Legislature has been sent back to the Florida Senate after changes were approved in the House. Lawmakers are racing to resolve the remaining issues before the end of the current legislative session.
The measure, known as SB 1580, focuses on strengthening penalties for people who run illegal gambling operations. Senators originally passed the proposal last week, but it must now return to the upper chamber because the House adopted an amendment that modifies several parts of the bill.
Dana Trabulsy, a Republican lawmaker from Fort Pierce, introduced the amendment during House debate. The update includes revised language and a provision allowing licensed gambling businesses to relocate up to about 1,300 square feet from their current site while keeping their operating license.
Some lawmakers raised concerns about how the bill could affect nonprofit groups. Dianne Hart-Lowman, a Democrat from Tampa, questioned whether the stricter rules might cause problems for veterans organizations that use gaming machines to raise money for community programs.
Supporters of veterans groups have also expressed worries during committee discussions earlier in the process. Many of these organizations rely on bingo and similar activities to fund support programs and services for former service members in their local areas.
Trabulsy responded by saying the legislation includes a way for veterans groups to verify whether their machines comply with state regulations. She said organizations could work with the Florida Gaming Control Commission to confirm the legality of their operations and avoid unexpected enforcement actions.
Another section of the bill addresses illegal slot machines seized during law enforcement raids. The proposal would authorize officials to destroy those devices once they are confiscated.
The legislation would also increase penalties for running illegal gambling houses, raising the offense to a third-degree felony. Lawmakers reduced the crime to a misdemeanor about six years ago, but supporters now argue stronger penalties are necessary to deter underground gaming businesses.
