No More Internet Cafes in Florida Following Gambling Arrests: Senate OK

(Associated Press) - A Senate panel has cleared its version of a ban on the Florida gambling establishments commonly known as Internet cafes.

The Senate committee on gaming Monday voted 11-0 on the bill (SB 1030) that started as a moratorium and evolved into an outright ban.

The vote follows a House committee's clearing of its own bill banning internet cafes on Friday.

Florida Lt. Gov. Jennifer Carroll resigned last week in the wake of an investigation into the Allied Veterans of the World charity that was suspected of running illegal gambling.

That probe has resulted in nearly 50 arrests. Carroll had provided public-relations representation to the company before her election. She has not been charged.

The Senate bill is expected to have one more committee stop before going to the floor.