Gulfstream Park Racing & Casino, which has found it difficult to attract customers since it began offering slots in 2006, on Nov. 28th filed for permission to join the state Supreme Court case that may determine the future of gaming in Florida.

Gulfstream sought to join a lawsuit filed by leaders of the Florida House opposing an agreement entered into by Gov. Charlie Crist that would allow the Seminole tribe to not only offer Class 3 slots at their seven casinos but blackjack and baccarat as well.

Gulfstream, which is located only a few miles from the Seminole Hard Rock Casino in Hollywood, argued that pari-mutuels contribute $3 billion to Florida's economy and employ thousands of people, all of which could be jeopardized by the pact with the Seminoles.

"In terms of direct fees and taxes to government, Gulfstream Park pays more than $30 million to state and local governments annually," wrote attorney Cynthia S. Tunnicliff wrote.

"This economic impact, these jobs and the consequential tax revenues are all jeopardized by the governor's actions in executing this compact," she added.

The Seminole Tribe last week also filed to join the case, noting that its interests will be directly affected by the court's decision as well.

Lawyers for Gulfstream and the Florida House both argue that the compact entered into by the governor and the Seminoles infringes on the Legislature's exclusive right to make law.