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Florida Governor Charlie Crist signed a blackjack deal yesterday that will net his state $1 billion in revenue over the next five years. The deal officially allows local casinos operated by the Seminole tribe to offer slot machines for the next 20 years, and table games like blackjack and baccarat at 5 of their 7 casinos for the next five years.

While the Seminoles get more games, the state gets money. The Seminoles will give the state of Florida $435 million this year and at least $1 billion over the next five years. It is expected that the addition of table games to Seminole casinos will be hugely popular among players, so it is possible that the state will earn $300 million more over that time.

“Today’s bill signing is the last step in a historic effort that benefits both the Seminole Tribe and the entire state of Florida,” Crist said. “Following three years of healthy debate and deliberation, the children and families of Florida are now the beneficiaries of much-needed money that will be used to fund critical needs such as education.”

Florida’s Seminoles have been battling for the right to offer blackjack tables and blackjack tournaments for years. Crist tried to sign a similar deal with the tribe in 2007, but the courts threw it out. This week’s bill was signed quietly, but a more ceremonial signing is expected to happen next week.