Florida Politics - Campaigns & Elections. Lobbying & Government.

A.G. GancarskiNovember 4, 2016

“Families for Safety and Prosperity,” the political committee marketing a referendum to add slot machines to bestbet Jacksonville, added $50,000 more to what was already a $2 million war chest on Thursday. The final number of $2,050,000 all came from one source: an affiliate company of bestbet, Jacksonville Greyhound Racing. The extra $50,000 came in handy, as […]

Jim RosicaOctober 24, 2016

It’s been nearly five months since the Florida Supreme Court heard arguments over whether to expand slot machines in the state. Though the justices never set a timeline on when to expect a decision, the smart money says: Expect something by early next year. That’s because that’s when the Legislature will start drawing up the state budget, […]

Jim RosicaJune 30, 2016

The lawyer for a proposed constitutional amendment limiting gambling in Florida fired back against critics, saying their arguments have “no basis in law.” Dan Gelber, the lawyer for Voters In Charge, the committee behind the amendment, filed an answer brief with the Florida Supreme Court Wednesday. The Voter Control of Gambling amendment would give Floridians more control over […]

A.G. GancarskiJune 27, 2016

Despite running for the House District 13 seat in Jacksonville’s urban core from Fleming Island, Democrat J.R. Gaillot weighs in on local issues. Last week, he advocated for an expansion of the Human Rights Ordinance. Monday, he took a position opposing to 2,000 slot machines coming to the bestbet facility in Jacksonville’s Arlington neighborhood. The contention is […]

Jim RosicaJune 20, 2016

Opponents of a proposed constitutional amendment on gambling are asking permission from the Florida Supreme Court to argue against it at a future hearing. Marc Dunbar, a lawyer-lobbyist who represents dog and horse tracks, filed a request for oral argument Monday, court dockets show. He filed on behalf of “Floridians for Clarity in Gaming Control.” […]

A.G. GancarskiJune 9, 2016

Alas, there were no slot machines in the Lynwood Roberts Room for demonstration purposes. None of the earmarks of a casino. No young women selling packs of cigarettes. And very little in the way of entertainment in a committee workshop that had about as much drama as an algebra equation. Rather, there were just the familiar […]

Jim RosicaJune 7, 2016

A lawyer for a small North Florida racetrack told the Florida Supreme Court Tuesday the Legislature intended to allow for an expansion of slot machines in the state. Marc Dunbar, attorney for Gretna Racing, told the justices it was “the easiest case you’re going to hear today.” He said counties were empowered under the constitution and state law […]

Jim RosicaJune 6, 2016

Thanks to No Casinos, gambling is on the docket this week in the Florida Supreme Court. On Tuesday, the justices will hear oral argument in a case on whether to expand slot machines in the state. Then on Thursday, legal briefs are due in a review of a proposed constitutional amendment limiting gambling. Both matters involve the Orlando-based group opposed […]

Jim RosicaMay 31, 2016

A plethora of high-profile matters is scheduled for argument before the Florida Supreme Court next week. The state’s justices will consider questions related to gambling, guns, capital punishment and medical malpractice. Another case involves claim bills, passed by lawmakers to pay people for injuries suffered at the hands of government or a public entity. Still two others involve attorneys […]

Jim RosicaMay 27, 2016

Despite “nothing about Hamilton Downs (being) real in terms of racetrack standards,” an administrative law judge nonetheless sided with the north Florida horse track, tossing out the state’s complaint that the track ran “flag drop” races contrary to its license. Administrative Law Judge E. Gary Early submitted his recommended order on Thursday, dismissing the action by state pari-mutuel regulators. […]

Tag: Slot machines
Biden in Tampa. Screenshot via PBS.

Jacksonville slots referendum push finishes with $2.05M raised

Slot machine decision could come in time for session

Gambling amendment lawyer defends initiative

HD 13 Dem J.R. Gaillot says no to slots

Gambling advocates seek oral argument against amendment

Jax Council committees workshop slots legislation

Lawmakers intended slots expansion, lawyer argues

Supreme Court takes up gambling this week

Bevy of big cases awaits state Supreme Court

Judge sides with track over ‘flag drop’ races