NewsWUSF — Tampa Bay NPR (Politics)August 26, 2026Hillsborough
Manatee County ordinance authorizes closure of adult arcades
Manatee County is finalizing an ordinance that provides law enforcement with new legal tools to shut down adult arcades operating within the county. This measure follows an investigation identifying more than 20 such establishments currently operating in the region.
Read the full story at WUSF — Tampa Bay NPR (Politics)Why It Matters
The changes the enforcement capacity of local authorities to close businesses that the county identifies as operating illegal slot machines.
Key Facts
- Manatee County is finalizing an ordinance to regulate adult arcades.
- The ordinance provides new tools for law enforcement to shut down existing adult arcade operations.
- An investigation identified more than 20 adult arcades currently operating in the region.
- The ordinance is a response to the operation of these businesses despite state laws banning slot machines.
Who's Mentioned
organizationFlorida Gaming Commission“State body that reviewed the proposed ordinance.”organizationSuncoast Searchlight-Bradenton Herald“The news organization that conducted the investigation into adult arcades.”locationManatee County“Jurisdiction where the ordinance is being implemented.”personDerek Gilliam“Reporter for Suncoast Searchlight.”personJason Bearden“Manatee County Commissioner.”organizationSuncoast Searchlight“Nonprofit newsroom that investigated illegal gambling.”organizationBradenton Herald“Newsroom that co-investigated illegal gambling.”personTal Siddique“Commission Chairman pushing for the ordinance.”personBob McCann“Manatee County Commissioner.”other20“The number of adult arcades identified in the investigation.”