Bill Type and
Number: Ordinance 2006-739
Sponsor: Council Member Jenkins
Date of
Introduction: June 27, 2006
Committee(s)
of Reference: ECID; R
Date of
Analysis: June 29, 2006
Type of
Action: Ordinance Code Amendment
Bill Summary: This bill creates a new Section 604.111,
Ordinance Code, concerning amusement gambling machines. The term amusement gambling machine is
defined as a machine that is a coin-, token-, or card-operated game that may
entitle a person playing or operating the machine to receive points or coupons
which may be exchanged for merchandise such as non-cash prizes, toys, and
novelties. The term does not include
certain machines prohibited under Florida Statutes. It is provided that amusement gambling
machines may only be operated in establishments that are bona fide amusement
centers (defined as an establishment that drives 50% of its revenue through one
or a combination of (1) the sale of food ordered from a menu, prepared, and
served for pay for consumption on premises only, and (2) the operation of video
machines, pinball machines, pool tables, or other recreational machines or
devices which do not entitle the person operating the machine to receive points
or coupons). It is further provided that
any points, coupons, cash, or cash-equivalent winnings derived from an
amusement gambling machine are prohibited from being redeemed for merchandise,
prizes, toys, or novelties outside of the bona fide amusement center, and
cannot be capable of being redeemed for alcohol or tobacco products.
Background
Information: The City is involved in litigation to
determine whether amusement gambling machines are illegal under Florida
Statutes. The bill states that, while
the courts are making this determination, the City desires to prohibit from
operating within the City those establishments whose sole purpose is to provide
amusement gambling machines.
Policy Impact
Area: Commerce and Industry; Amusement Gambling
Machines
Fiscal Impact: Undetermined
Analyst: