House Bill 953 amends various sections of Florida Statutes to enhance regulations and penalties associated with gambling activities. Key changes include the deletion of obsolete provisions and the modification of membership criteria for the Florida Gaming Control Commission, specifically removing the requirement for diversity in appointments. The bill introduces new criminal penalties for offenses such as betting on predetermined athletic contests and false impersonation of commission personnel, while also increasing penalties for keeping a gambling house and for agents or employees involved in such activities. Additionally, it establishes new definitions for Internet gambling and sports wagering, prohibiting these activities and defining penalties for violations.

The bill also addresses illegal gambling advertisements, prohibiting individuals from promoting or facilitating illegal gambling through various media, with penalties escalating for repeat offenses. It creates a preemption clause that limits local governments' ability to enact gambling-related ordinances unless permitted by state law. Furthermore, HB 953 introduces stricter penalties for offenses related to gambling, including new legal language for repeat offenders and specific actions such as renting a house for gambling purposes and manufacturing or selling slot machines. The bill aims to strengthen law enforcement's ability to combat organized crime and enhance public safety through these stricter legal repercussions.

Statutes affected:
H 953 Filed: 16.71, 838.12, 843.08, 849.01, 849.02, 849.03, 849.08, 849.11, 849.13, 849.14, 849.15, 849.23, 895.02