Florida’s Legislature is advancing House Bill 198, a comprehensive measure targeting illegal slot machines, parimutuel wagering, and corruption in sports betting, signaling a potential shift in the state’s iGaming landscape.

The bill, approved 13-4 by the Criminal Justice Subcommittee under Republican Rep. Dana Trabulsy, proposes updated rules for daily fantasy sports and criminalizes corrupt sports betting practices. It designates possession of illegal slot machines as a second-degree felony and the misuse of insider information in sports betting as a third-degree felony.

A notable feature of HB 198 is its provision for veterans’ organizations. Groups that operate amusement games—often a key revenue source—would be able to legally verify that their machines are not illegal slot machines. This aims to prevent unintentional criminal liability while maintaining regulatory oversight. However, the exemption for nonprofit organizations remains under debate, reflecting tensions between enforcement priorities and community interests.

Analysts suggest the bill could have a direct impact on Florida’s burgeoning iGaming market. By tightening oversight and clarifying legal boundaries, HB 198 may reduce illicit operations and boost consumer confidence in regulated platforms. Industry experts note that greater transparency in sports betting could encourage broader participation, particularly as national interest in online gaming grows.

Ensuring integrity in sports betting is essential not just for regulation but for market growth,

Outlook

“Ensuring integrity in sports betting is essential not just for regulation but for market growth,” said one market analyst. “Florida’s move may reassure both consumers and operators, laying the groundwork for a more robust iGaming ecosystem.”

Looking ahead, the bill’s passage could reshape the state’s gaming environment in the coming months. Operators of online fantasy sports and legal wagering platforms may see increased demand as trust in the system grows. At the same time, veterans’ organizations and nonprofits will need to navigate the bill’s evolving provisions to remain compliant.

With the Florida iGaming market projected to expand, HB 198 reflects the state’s dual approach: curbing illegal activity while protecting community stakeholders, a balance that could influence both market growth and public perception in 2026 and beyond.