Florida lawmakers seek to outlaw all non-Seminole gaming
Florida lawmakers are revisiting the debate over control of online gambling in the state. House Bill 591 (HB 591), introduced by Representative Berny Jacques, proposes making most forms of internet gambling a third‑degree felony. The bill includes one key exception: the Seminole Tribe of Florida, which holds exclusive gaming rights under its state compact. The measure raises questions about whether Florida is acting to curb illegal gambling or reinforcing the tribe’s monopoly.
Understanding HB 591
HB 591 seeks to criminalise online gambling operations not authorised under the Seminole compact. It defines online gambling as any digital game where money or something of value is won based on chance, even if skill is involved. This would mean simulated casino games such as slots, video poker and table games could be prohibited unless offered by the Seminole Tribe.
Under HB 591, anyone offering online casino‑style games without state approval would be classified as an illegal operator. The bill also extends to promotions and advertisements, meaning affiliates and promoters could face penalties. A key challenge is that many digital gaming products blur the line between skill‑based and chance‑based play, creating legal uncertainty.
The Seminole Tribe’s exclusive rights
The Seminole Tribe’s compact with Florida grants it exclusive rights over casino‑style games and sports betting, with the tribe contributing significant revenue to the state. In 2021, the agreement was expanded to include control of sports betting through the Hard Rock Bet platform. Lawmakers now appear intent on closing loopholes that could allow non‑Seminole operators to enter the digital gaming market.
Controversy around sweepstakes and social games
One of the most debated aspects of HB 591 concerns sweepstakes and social plus games, which allow players to win prizes through promotional contests. Although not mentioned directly in the bill, its broad definition of gambling could include these platforms, effectively prohibiting them in Florida.
Jeff Duncan, Executive Director of the Social Gaming Leadership Alliance (SGLA), says these games are legal under Florida’s promotional sweepstakes laws. He argues that HB 591 does not distinguish lawful sweepstakes from illegal offshore gambling sites.
Duncan stated, “We strongly disagree with the categorisation that Social Plus games that utilise sweepstakes promotions have anything in common with illegal offshore gambling operations. HB 591 laudably seeks to stop illegal gambling from taking place in the state of Florida, but fails to account for how lawful promotional sweepstakes operate in Florida.”
Broader crackdown
In 2025, states including Montana, New Jersey and California passed laws banning sweepstakes‑style games. In Florida, HB 189 is also under consideration, aiming to legalise paid daily fantasy sports while banning betting with insider information, echoing elements of HB 591.
HB 591 includes measures to prevent insider betting, addressing concerns about data leaks and manipulation in online markets. It also restricts gambling advertisements, particularly those aimed at minors or that misrepresent winning odds, and revises criminal penalties to strengthen enforcement against online gaming misconduct.
Economic and legal implications
The online gambling industry generates billions nationally, and Florida could secure significant revenue by limiting operations to the Seminole Tribe. However, this may reduce market diversity and innovation. Legal challenges are expected, with operators likely to argue that HB 591 violates the commerce and equal protection clauses. Supporters of HB 591 highlight consumer safety and anti‑addiction measures. Opponents point to political motives and tribal lobbying influence. Florida’s gambling debates have long been politically sensitive, and further disputes are likely.
The 2026 legislative session may prove decisive. Lawmakers could amend HB 591 or introduce new measures to clarify lawful digital gaming. Court rulings against parts of the bill could open the door to a regulated multi‑operator market, but for now, the Seminole Tribe retains the advantage.
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