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New Poll Finds Floridians Split on Expanded Gambling


Jan.30, 2012 | WMFE - A new public opinion survey by the Miami Herald and Tampa Bay Times finds Florida voters are divided on whether they want full-service, Las Vegas style, casinos in Florida.


800 registered voters from around the state were asked whether they support the expansion of gambling to allow three destination resort casinos.
44 percent of those surveyed were opposed, while 42 percent were in favor. The poll has a margin of error of 3.5 percent.
Mary Ellen Klas with the Herald/Times Tallahassee bureau said support was higher in Southeast Florida where the proposed mega resorts would be located.
“While the state is very divided, one of the questions we asked is ‘do you think that gambling would help the economy?’ By an overwhelming margin, people said yes.” Klas said.
81 percent also believe that voters, not lawmakers, should decide whether to allow mega- casinos in Florida. Klas said lawmakers should pay attention.
“I think it’s a message to the Legislature that maybe you shouldn’t have to tackle this on your own; maybe this is something you should leave to the voters.”
Proposals in the Legislature to allow casino resorts have been set aside while lawmakers finish work on redistricting. A statewide referendum on the issue is not being considered at this time.

 

  

 

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