Senate President Mike Haridopolos supports destination gambling resorts in Florida

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) -- Senate President Mike Haridopolos is taking a gamble on gaming.

The Merritt Island Republican said Tuesday that he's pushing for a vote on legislation that would permit destination gambling resorts in Florida.

Haridopolos said to help make sure such a bill gets a floor vote he changed the membership of a key Senate committee last week.

He said it's a chance for Florida to add at least $1 billion annually to state revenues.

But Haridopolos acknowledged getting casino resort legislation passed isn't a sure bet as the House so far has been cool to the idea.

Haridopolos also said at a news conference that his chamber next year will focus on legislation designed to curtail fraud in Florida's no-fault automobile insurance system.

Other priorities include economic development and immigration legislation.

© 2011 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Learn more about our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.