Florida bill seeks tougher penalties for illegal gambling

FORT MYERS, Fla.—Strip mall gaming shops may look harmless to some. Still, state leaders and law enforcement officials say that many of these operations are illegal, and current penalties may not be substantial enough to deter them from reopening.

Florida lawmakers are pushing House Bill 189, which would increase penalties for illegal gambling operations, potentially making repeat or large-scale cases felonies.

According to the Florida Gaming Control Commission, many illegal gambling cases are currently charged as misdemeanors, which can make enforcement more challenging. State gaming officials say some operators treat fines as a cost of doing business rather than a deterrent.

Recently, deputies in Lee County have shut down multiple illegal gambling operations, seizing machines and evidence as part of ongoing investigations.

Some residents told WINK News they worry illegal gambling operations can target vulnerable people and negatively impact nearby communities.

“They get taken in, and then they lose everything that they have,” said Fort Myers resident Mary Helmstetter. “Then they’re struggling.”

Another Fort Myers resident, Kyrone, said more vigorous enforcement could help prevent repeat offenses.

“The government should enforce more laws, so they won’t be able to be established again,” Kyrone said.

State gaming officials say that concern is exactly what House Bill 189 is designed to address.

“The biggest objective for us is changing the penalties,” said Alana Zimmer, executive director of the Florida Gaming Control Commission.

The Lee County Sheriff’s Office says it works closely with the Florida Gaming Control Commission to investigate businesses profiting from illegal gambling. Deputies note that illegal arcades can attract more crime to surrounding neighborhoods and create safety concerns for nearby residents and enterprises.

Lee deputies say if the bill passes, deputies will continue partnering with state gaming officials to reduce illegal gambling activity across Lee County.

The Criminal Justice Subcommittee discussed the bill on Wednesday to make sure it does not inadvertently restrict charitable fundraising games. They mention concerns from groups including the VFW, American Legion, and Florida Moose Association.

House Bill 189 is still making its way through the Florida Legislature.