TALLAHASSEE, FL -- The Seminole Tribe would be able to keep blackjack at its Tampa and Broward County casinos under a proposed agreement that's going to Gov. Charlie Crist.
All seven of the tribe's casinos would also be allowed slot machines under the proposed deal. The Senate passed the bill (SB 788) Friday on a 31-9 vote. The House later passed it on an 82-35 vote.
The proposed deal calls for the state to receive at least $150 million a year from the tribe, but there's no guarantee the tribe will accept it. The deal isn't as good for the Seminoles as the one they signed with Crist in 2007.
The Supreme Court ruled Crist didn't have the authority to sign that agreement.
In a written statement released today, Crist said "I applaud the Florida House and Senate for coming together on an agreement that will help bring billions of dollars to Florida schools during the next 15 years. Their hard work will improve the quality of life of students, teachers, and all Floridians for generations to come."
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The Associated Press contributed to this report.
