Tags: Gambling

For years the Nutz Poker League, along with several competitors, has been running free tournaments at bars and restaurants in the Tampa Bay area.

Because nobody anyplace else places bets

Now scheduled for January

Market protection through the ballot box

$2.5 million on candidates to protect billions in profits from the market

In support of candidates who will oppose casinos in the state (you know, competition).

Several offshore betting sites have also given refunds

Changed hands in the wrong direction, anyway

Jury awards $20 million

Agreements still require legislative approval, which is where opponents (rival tribes) have the most influence

Plan would have allowed five more casinos, one in Chicago.

State Supreme Court will allow voters to decide whether to allow eight more facilities.