South Florida voters may get chance to vote on casinos

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) – South Florida voters may get a chance to tell legislators whether they want Las-Vegas styled casinos.

A Florida House panel on Thursday voted in favor of a stripped-down gambling bill.

Legislators removed a provision to allow two casinos in Miami-Dade and Broward counties, but agreed to let county commissioners hold referendums on whether casinos should be allowed.

Rep. Ritch Workman said he wants to know if people in “downtown Miami” support a casino.

Even if voters say yes, the Legislature would have to give approval.

The House bill (HB 1233) was changed to allow slot machines at dog tracks in Lee and Palm Beach counties.

A similar gambling bill now moving in the Senate would also extend for one year a deal that lets the Seminole Tribe offer blackjack at its casinos.