Legislatures began talks this week that will determine whether the game of blackjack will stay or go at local casinos. Players enjoy playing the game and do so often but many officials have different thoughts on the subject.

In south Florida the subject is up for debate as the Senate wants to keep the blackjack tables at the Hard Rock casino and also allow pari-mutuel dog and horse tracks in certain counties to add the tables as well. However, House negotiators think differently. They think blackjack is tough to sell and is troubling when it comes to expansion.

Many say the game of blackjack brings in a different kind of player, a high roller. The game is more of a high stakes game and it would mean having a ‘real casino’ according to Will Weatherford, a representative of Florida.

Both groups will be discussing the matter and will try to come to a decision before the budget is finalized by next week, though they will not assure gamblers that a decision will be made by that time. The governor or Florida, Charlie Crist stated he would like legislatures to think about whether the game is popular or not, because it matters what the people of the state think as well.




- 2009-04-30