In a major blow to opponents of Florida’s online sports betting compact, the US Supreme Court has refused to take up a challenge to the agreement, allowing it to move forward as planned. The decision, announced on Monday, comes after a months-long legal battle over the controversial deal, which was signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis earlier this year.
The online sports betting compact, which was negotiated between the state of Florida and the Seminole Tribe of Florida, allows for the tribe to operate mobile sports betting in the state. The deal also paves the way for the tribe to offer sports betting at its casinos, including the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood.
Opponents of the compact, including several anti-gambling groups and the Florida House of Representatives, argued that the agreement violated the state’s constitution, which prohibits the expansion of gambling without voter approval. They also raised concerns about the potential negative impacts of online sports betting, such as addiction and crime.
Despite these objections, the Supreme Court’s decision not to hear the case effectively upholds a lower court ruling that found the compact to be constitutional. The ruling clears the way for online sports betting to launch in Florida, potentially generating millions of dollars in revenue for the state and the Seminole Tribe.
In a statement following the decision, Governor DeSantis hailed the ruling as a “major victory for the people of Florida.” He praised the compact as a “common-sense agreement” that will benefit both the state and the tribe.
Supporters of the compact, including the Seminole Tribe and several state lawmakers, have argued that the agreement will help regulate the growing online sports betting market in Florida and crack down on illegal gambling operations. They also point to the potential economic benefits of the deal, such as job creation and increased tourism.
Despite the Supreme Court’s decision, opponents of the compact have vowed to continue fighting against online sports betting in Florida. They have indicated that they may pursue other legal avenues to challenge the agreement, such as seeking a constitutional amendment to prohibit online sports betting.
As online sports betting prepares to launch in Florida, it remains to be seen how the new industry will impact the state’s economy and social landscape. With the legal battle now settled, all eyes are on the Seminole Tribe as they gear up to offer online sports betting to residents and visitors alike. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.