Miami Dade: Slot Machines Get New Chance

Voters in Miami-Dade County will get another chance to approve or reject the addition of slot machines at three pari-mutuels after commissioners decided Tuesday to put the measure on the ballot in January.

The last time there was a proposal to add Las Vegas-style slots to Miami-Dade County's horse and dog racing tracks and jai-alai fronton was in March 2005, but voters defeated the ballot measure.

At that time, Broward County voters approved slots for its four pari-mutuels, and that county's three racetracks have since expanded or renovated to accommodate the machines. Florida schools receive tax dollars from gambling revenues.

The referendum approved Tuesday would be added to the Jan. 29 ballot _ which already features the presidential primary and a proposed constitutional amendment on property taxes.

Supporters of slot machines contend they cold be cash cows for a county government facing a squeeze on property taxes.

Opponents of slots argue they bring negative social consequences such as gambling addiction.