House Bill 189 seeks clarity on oversight of gaming and amusement machines
Florida lawmakers have introduced House Bill 189, a sweeping proposal aimed at modernizing and tightening the state’s gambling laws. The bill, which would take effect on July 1, 2026, seeks to clarify the state’s oversight of gaming and amusement machines while strengthening enforcement against illegal gambling operations.
One of the bill’s main changes allows businesses uncertain about the legality of a gaming device to petition the Florida Gaming Control Commission for a formal ruling. The commission must respond within 60 days to determine whether the device qualifies as a lawful amusement machine. During that time, operators cannot purchase or install the machines under review. However, petitions cannot be filed if the game or location is already under criminal investigation.
To ensure transparency, each petition must include full technical details about the device. Once approved, the commission’s decision becomes legally binding and can serve as proof of good-faith compliance in any future disputes. The bill also prevents the commission from rejecting legitimate petitions that meet all the statutory requirements, giving businesses more certainty and reducing legal ambiguity.
HB 189 adds a new definition of a “person of authority,” referring to anyone with ownership or managerial control over a business that operates gaming machines. Violations by these individuals would be treated as third-degree felonies, increasing accountability at the top level of gaming establishments.
Another section clarifies that shipments of approved gaming devices to tribal lands and counties authorized for gaming are legal, provided they meet federal and tribal-state compact regulations. Supporters say the bill offers long-overdue clarity and protection for lawful operators while helping veterans’ organizations and community venues operate responsibly. Lawmakers hope it will bring greater transparency and consistency to Florida’s complex gaming landscape.
