Florida lawmaker wants to create state gambling commission

The news of a $3 billion compact with the Seminole Tribe has prompted a senator in Florida to call for the formation of a state gambling commission.

Sen. Maria Sachs, D-Delray Beach, filed a legislation on Monday, proposing a five-member commission to be appointed by the governor. Under the bill, the new Department of Gaming is expected to oversee “the activities of all gaming entities.”

“The is a compelling need to create the Department of Gaming and a Gaming Commission, whose functions will be to oversee the activities of all gaming entities, to regulate their operations, to enforce gaming laws and regulations, and to audit the proceeds from gaming operations,” Sachs wrote.

Currently, Florida has different agencies that oversee gambling in the state. The Department of Lottery conducts all legal lottery gaming, while the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services registers and regulates certain game promotions.