SB 1198 - Department of Gaming Summary

• Creates a new Department of Gaming with a five-member Gaming Commission appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate; members must include a CPA, law enforcement expert, and gaming industry expert, with terms limited to two full terms maximum.

• Transfers regulatory authority over pari-mutuel wagering (Chapter 550), slot machine gaming (Chapter 551), and cardroom operations (Section 849.086) from the Department of Business and Professional Regulation's Division of Pari-mutuel Wagering to the new Department of Gaming.

• Establishes four divisions within the Department of Gaming: Administration, Enforcement, Licensure, and Revenue and Audits; authorizes the department to employ law enforcement officers with statewide jurisdiction.

• Preserves all existing licenses, permits, and certifications issued under the previous regulatory structure and maintains all lawful orders and rules previously adopted.

• Maintains existing tax rates, fees, and revenue distributions to the Pari-mutuel Wagering Trust Fund, Educational Enhancement Trust Fund, and local governments; effective July 1, 2016.