The gaming compact that will be debated by the Florida Legislature next week has plenty of support from likely Florida voters, according to the results of a new poll released Tuesday.

The poll, commissioned by the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association in cooperation with the Seminole Tribe, showed 62% in favor of the compact and 17% opposed.

Legislators are scheduled to consider the compact starting May 17 in a special session.

“The Compact will not just benefit the Seminole Tribe and Florida’s state revenue, it will bring a much-needed boost in Florida tourism – Florida’s economic engine – which recorded its lowest year in more than a decade in 2020, and it will also bring thousands of jobs for Florida’s hospitality industry,” Carol Dover, president and CEO of the FRLA, said in a statement. “We believe that the new casino games will not conflict with Florida’s family friendly image, which is especially important in Central Florida, as the new casino table games are limited to Seminole Reservations where casino gaming already takes place. Florida’s tourism and hospitality industry is working to rebuild after a devastating year, and we strongly support this Gaming Compact and our friends in the Seminole Tribe who have continued to demonstrate their commitment to the well-being of our great state.”

The 30-year compact was signed April 23 by Chairman Marcellus W. Osceola Jr. and Gov. Ron DeSantis. Approval by the state legislature, the Seminole Tribal Council and the U.S. Department of Interior is required. According to a press release from the governor’s office, the compact’s projected revenue to the state from the tribe is $6 billion over the next decade with a guaranteed minimum of $2.5 billion during the first five years. The tribe would be allowed to run craps and roulette at its casinos and receive exclusive control over all sports betting in the state.

The poll also showed that the Seminole Tribe itself has a 7 to 1 favorability rating among those surveyed who have heard of the tribe.

The poll was conducted by the Tyson Group. It surveyed 1,000 registered voters in Florida by phone.  

Click here for more information about the poll.