The bill amends Florida Statutes to authorize certain veterans' service organizations to petition the Florida Gaming Control Commission for a declaratory statement regarding the legality of purchasing or installing gaming machines. Specifically, organizations that hold a federal charter under Title 36, U.S.C., and possess an alcoholic beverage license can seek clarification if they are uncertain whether a machine qualifies as an amusement machine. The bill prohibits these organizations from making any purchases or installations until a declaratory statement is issued and restricts petitions if the game or machine is under criminal investigation. The Commission is required to respond to petitions within 60 days and cannot deny valid requests. The declaratory statement will be binding and can be used as evidence in future proceedings.

Additionally, the bill introduces a definition for "person of authority" in relation to the manufacture and sale of slot machines, establishing criminal penalties for violations committed by such individuals. It also clarifies that shipments of legal gaming devices into Indian lands are considered legal if the lands are federally recognized and part of a tribal-state compact. The effective date for this act is set for July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 189 Filed: 849.15