The negotiations between the state of Florida and the Seminole Tribe may have ground to a halt under the old administration of Governor Jeb Bush but, with the ink barely dry on the ceremonial signing of the Hard Rock purchase, tribal leaders are turning their attention to reaching agreement on Class III gaming. No date has been set, but new Governor Charlie Crist is thought to be more open minded than his predecessor and federal law is on the side of the Seminoles.

A lawsuit is pending to settle the matter through the courts, which could result in Florida losing the monetary benefits it could be expected to gain through a negotiated compact. Last week Crist issued a statement following a brief meeting with tribal leaders. It said that he looked forward to entering into discussions with the expectation of a achieving a compact.

Since Class III commercial slot machine venues were opened in Broward County, the Indian casinos have been at a disadvantage. They look to have further competition if, as is expected, the issue of slot machines at racetracks goes back on the ballot in Miami-Dade later this year. Negotiating a compact with Governor Crist is a top priority for the Seminole Tribe, and a matter of urgency.
(E-03.07.07)

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