Florida lawmakers have filed Senate Bill 1164 (S 1164) for the 2026 legislative session, a sweeping reform measure aimed at strictly prohibiting internet gambling and online sports wagering across the state.
Sponsored by Senator Clay Yarborough, the bill seeks to tighten regulatory control and clarify the state’s authority over all gaming activities.
Strengthening Restrictions
Unlike previous legislative efforts that sought to expand gaming options, Senate Bill 1164 focuses on enforcement and restriction.
The proposal would explicitly ban online casinos and internet sports betting, effectively preempting any local ordinances that might attempt to authorize such activities.
The bill is described as a measure to “tighten regulatory standards” and ensure that digital gaming spaces, which have grown rapidly, do not operate outside of Florida’s existing legal frameworks. Currently, the state’s sports betting market operates under a specific tribal compact model.
Next Steps
Now officially filed, the bill is slated for committee review in Tallahassee. If passed, it would represent a significant hardening of Florida‘s stance against the expansion of commercial online gambling, reinforcing the state’s control over its gaming landscape.
