In August, Mason-Dixon conducted a poll on gambling in Florida. Here are a few of the questions and how Florida residents responded:
QUESTION: Florida’s tax revenues from pari-mutuel wagering have fallen by more than half over the past decade. According to some industry officials, much of this decline is a result of increased gaming opportunities in nearby states and in the Bahamas. Do you believe that Florida should or should not take steps to make certain that it maximizes the tax revenues it receives from pari-mutuel wagering?
SHOULD 60%
SHOULD NOT 27%
NOT SURE 13%
QUESTION: Florida’s horse and dog tracks and jai alai frontons employ thousands of residents and contribute millions of tax dollars to our state. Do you believe that Florida should or should not take steps to protect the jobs that are provided by the pari-mutuel industry?
SHOULD 66%
SHOULD NOT 24%
NOT SURE 10%
QUESTION: One proposal currently before the Florida Legislature would authorize the same forms of gaming at Florida’s pari-mutuel facilities that might soon be allowed on the Seminole reservation. Which one of the following statements best describes your opinion about this plan: (ORDER ROTATED)
24% – I am opposed to gaming in all forms and further expansion should not be allowed under any circumstances.
28% – I am opposed to gaming, but I believe that Florida’s pari-mutuels should be given the same opportunities that the Seminoles have.
11% – I support expanded gaming opportunities, but only on the Seminole reservation.
32% – I support expanded gaming opportunities and believe that the pari-mutuels should have the same opportunities Florida is giving the Seminole Tribe.
5% – Not Sure
QUESTION: Do you believe Florida’s economy would or would not benefit by allowing increased gaming opportunities at the state’s pari-mutuel facilities?
WOULD 64%
WOULD NOT 24%
NOT SURE 12%