The bill amends various sections of Florida Statutes to enhance the regulatory framework surrounding gambling activities in the state. Key changes include the deletion of obsolete provisions and specific language regarding the appointment process for members of the Florida Gaming Control Commission. The bill mandates that the commission's annual reports include detailed information about investigations, complaints, and property seizures. It also introduces new restrictions on employment for commission members and employees, particularly concerning their involvement with regulated entities, including fantasy sports contests. Enhanced standards of conduct are established, prohibiting commission members from accepting employment with regulated entities for a specified period after their service, and new criminal penalties are introduced for various gambling-related offenses.

Additionally, the bill reclassifies certain offenses, such as bribery in sports and gambling operations, from misdemeanors to felonies, and clarifies the roles and responsibilities of gambling operators and participants. It establishes penalties for manipulating card games and outlines conditions for conducting fantasy sports contests. The bill also addresses illegal gambling activities by imposing penalties for promoting or facilitating such activities and clarifying advertising regulations. Furthermore, it amends criteria for bail determination related to gambling violations and strengthens the legal framework to ensure that illegal activities are appropriately penalized while allowing for regulated gambling practices. The effective date for this act is set for October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1404 Filed: 16.71, 551.104, 838.12, 843.08, 849.01, 849.02, 849.03, 849.08, 849.11, 849.13, 849.14, 849.15, 849.23, 895.02
S 1404 c1: 16.71, 551.104, 838.12, 843.08, 849.01, 849.02, 849.03, 849.08, 849.11, 849.13, 849.14, 849.15, 849.23, 895.02
S 1404 c2: 16.71, 550.09512, 550.09515, 551.104, 551.114, 838.12, 843.08, 849.01, 849.02, 849.03, 849.08, 849.086, 849.11, 849.13, 849.14, 849.15, 849.23, 895.02