Florida Doubled Down on Stopping Illegal Gaming in 2025

The Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) has continued its war on illegal gambling, resulting in the crackdowns of multiple unauthorized gaming dens in 2025.

The Crackdowns Yielded Impressive Results

In a report published on December 30, the FGCC outlined the results of its continued gambling enforcement efforts, saying that they have yielded “impressive results.” The commission elaborated that its action against illicit gambling venues in 2025 has led to the seizing of a staggering $14,474,336. In addition to that, the FGCC seized 6,725 illegal slot machines from illegal venues across the state.

To put these numbers into perspective, the FGCC confiscated $7,110,613 and 1,287 slot machines in 2024. This suggests that the commission has doubled down on its enforcement effort in 2025, reflecting the state’s zero tolerance for illegal gambling.

In addition to its increased crackdowns, the FGCC also increased its ties with local, state, and federal enforcement agencies. The commission also entered into 29 new MOUs to solidify its stance against illegal gambling.

In its official release, the FGCC reminded players in the state of the dangers associated with playing in unauthorized gaming hubs. The commission noted that the machines such illicit venues use are not tested or regulated by the state. As a result, participants have no assurance of fair play, accurate payouts, and basic consumer protections.

The FGCC remarked that illegal casinos often take advantage of their customers, while also depriving local communities and the state of revenue.

Legal gambling machines are permitted only in legal facilities, the FGCC reminded. It also pointed out that legal slots can be found at the state’s eight pari-mutuel facilities in Miami-Dade and Broward counties, as well as at venues operated by the Seminole Tribe. Players can check a map of authorized gambling locations at FLGaming.com.

FGCC Thanks Gov. DeSantis and the Legislature for Their Support

Alana Zimmer, executive director of the FGCC, commented on the continued fight against illicit gambling. Zimmer thanked Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Florida Legislature for supporting her organization’s efforts to stop unlicensed gambling in the state.

Their [DeSantis’ and the legislature’s] actions strengthen Florida’s gambling laws and help protect our communities. FGCC has been working diligently to halt illegal gambling through enforcement actions across the state, demonstrating the dedication of FGCC’s law enforcement officers.

Alana Zimmer, executive director, FGCC

In other news, Florida legislators filed recently submitted House Bill 881 in an attempt to breathe new life into the long-running fight regarding the future of live horse racing in the state.