FGCC Hosts Sessions To Update Cardroom Regulations

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The Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) is convening statewide stakeholder sessions to solicit input on proposed revisions to cardroom regulations.

Cardrooms in Florida

Key Takeaways:

  • The FGCC seeks input from dealers and operators to revise cardroom regulations
  • Focus is on operational standards and integrity safeguards in Chapter 75-11
  • Enhanced enforcement and recent legislative debates influence proposed rule updates

They aim to refine the rules that govern licensed card operations per the press release.

FGCC officials invited experienced dealers and operators to participate in its “All In” information-gathering meetings. 

Changes to the Code

The report stated that “broad participation in these sessions will help ensure that all perspectives are considered as FGCC reviews potential changes of the Florida Administrative Code.” 

The FGCC has statutory authority to adopt, amend, or repeal rules for cardroom activity and operates as an independent entity within the Office of the Attorney General.

Commission staff indicated the focus is Chapter 75-11 of the Florida Administrative Code. This prescribes game procedures, equipment standards and operator responsibilities, including requirements that operators supply cards and chips and that decks be secured and inspected. 

The FGCC has framed the sessions as an opportunity for practitioners to advise on practical adjustments to operational rules such as designated-player rotation, card handling and prohibited practices. 

Meeting logistics released by the commission list sessions in Orlando on April 2 and Fort Lauderdale on May 7, following an earlier Tallahassee event.

The Bigger Picture

It reflects a wider national trend of intensifying legal disputes over cardroom operations. This was highlighted by developments in California where the California Cardrooms Coalition has launched a lawsuit challenging restrictions on blackjack-style games following regulatory approvals by state authorities.

The Senate also recently confirmed five FGCC commissioners, reinforcing the panel charged with rulemaking, investigations and annual reporting to the governor. This follows a broader period of uncertainty in Florida’s gambling policy landscape. Efforts to advance sweeping reforms – including proposals tied to iGaming expansion and stricter enforcement measures – have stalled in the legislature.