Optimism over legalisation of online casinos in New York dwindled after Gov. Kathy Hochul’s budget did not include potential tax revenue from the sector.
The news will be a key setback for Democratic Senator Joseph Addabbo, who pushed forward with the bill in a bid to bring forward igaming framework for 2024.
Nonetheless, he had previously emphasised that with or without the support of Hochul, he will look to progress the bill and the legislation of online casino as he has emphasised the economic impact it could have on the state.
Hochul is currently dealing with other gaming issues this year, including the vetting of potential holders of the three downstate casino licenses. Additionally, she is still working on a long-term renewed agreement between the state and the Seneca Nation.
A recent edition of the iGamingDaily provided a deep dive into the status of online casino and the progress of the sector within the US.
On the episode, Jessica Welman emphasised that whether or not online casino was included in the budget would be telling as to whether there are serious intentions held by the region for the legalisation of online casino.
Nonetheless, the podcast also analysed that the process for passing bills in the US can be drawn out and regularly requires multiple attempts, as Addabbo seeks to grow the support needed and engage a larger number of senators.
The panel also detailed that political opinion is relatively split when it comes to online casinos being legislated in the state. However, various Democrats and Republicans have come out both in support and opposition to the bill – a factor that potentially enables the bill to grow.
CasinoBeats Breakdown: The roadmap for online casino legislation in the US is set to be extensive, whilst the latest setback is significant for the near future, it’s unlikely to wilt the enthusiasm of Addabbo who continues to pursue legislation for the state.
