Alert: Florida Agencies Issue Joint Anti-Gambling Message
The perception that gambling enforcement is trending up in Florida will be bolstered by today’s message from the state agencies that regulate the alcohol and gambling industries.
The email’s text is reproduced below (emphasis added):
The Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco (Division) in partnership with the Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) is requesting our Licensees ensure that any gaming machines or gambling located on your licensed premises are not in violation of Chapter 849, Florida Statutes. Gambling in Florida is limited to lawfully designated locations, and violations of this statute may result in both criminal and civil penalties. Additionally, violations are subject to administrative action by the Division, up to and including license revocation. The Division recommends seeking legal guidance if you are unsure of the legality of any type of gaming or gambling at your place of business.
During routine inspections, the Division is referring licensees possessing machines or any other types of illegal gambling on the licensed premises to the FGCC for appropriate action.
For further information, please contact the FGCC at (850) 880-3433 or or ContactUs@flgaming.gov.
The FGCC has been in the news for a series of busts targeting illegal gaming machines. This public warning puts lounges, convenience stores, and other establishments with alcohol licenses on notice that illegal gambling enforcement is now a focus of both gaming and beverage agents. The joint announcement was presumably routed to the inboxes of all alcoholic beverage license holders by the Division.
As it relates to enforcement efforts, a state regulator nicely asking the regulated community to follow the law is certainly a fair approach. A wise licensee might appreciate the fair warning, especially if they have a questionable machine on their premises.