The Voter Control of Gambling Amendment has passed another key threshold as the Florida Supreme Court has approved the ballot title and summary for the 2018 General Election Ballot.

“We are pleased that the Supreme Court has approved the language of this amendment and we can move forward with our efforts to ensure that Florida voters – not gambling industry influence and deal making – are the ultimate authority when it comes to deciding whether or not to expand gambling in our state,” said Voters In Charge Chairman John Sowinski.

The Voter Control of Gambling Amendment would require those pressing for casino gambling to make their case to Florida voters in an open and public forum through a constitutional initiative. The amendment has consistently polled near or above 70% approval over the last few years. Additional polling has shown that 72% of Floridians believe the state has too much or just enough gambling.

The ballot summary for the proposed amendment begins as follows:

“This amendment ensures that Florida voters shall have the exclusive right to decide whether to authorize casino gambling by requiring that in order for casino gambling to be authorized under Florida law, it must be approved by Florida voters pursuant to Article XI, Section 3 of the Florida Constitution. Affects articles X and XI. Defines casino gambling and clarifies that this amendment does not conflict with federal law regarding state/tribal compacts”

“We will continue to collect the remaining petitions required to achieve ballot placement in 2018,” Sowinski continued. “The expansion of gambling in Florida carries with it such significant consequences for our state that any decision to do so should rest with the people of Florida.’’

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