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Gov. Bush lets poker law pass

Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2003 | 9:23 a.m.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- A measure opponents say could encourage gambling by allowing bigger stakes in poker games at dog tracks and jai alai frontons will become law without his signature, Gov. Jeb Bush said Tuesday.

Gambling opponents had urged the governor to veto the bill, fearing it will dramatically increase the amount players can win in poker games at dog tracks and jai alai frontons, thus increasing the number of people gambling.

It also could lead horse tracks to add poker rooms because it eliminates a requirement that thoroughbred tracks choose between evening simulcasting and running a card room. Dog tracks aren't bound by that provision and Bush cited equalizing treatment for horse tracks as one reason he decided to not veto the law.

The bill was sought by track proprietors, who say they're losing customers to other forms of legal gambling, such as Indian casinos and cruise ships.

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