NY Senator Continues Work to Legalize Online Casino in the State

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New York State Senator Joseph Addabbo has introduced a bill, Senate Bill S8185, which would allow online casino gaming and internet lottery in the state.

The bill has been sent to the New York Senate Racing, Gaming and Wagering Committee for further examination. It is the latest move in Senator Addabbo’s continuous commitment to establishing a legal online casino framework in New York. His previous attempt, with Bill S4856 in early 2023, shared similar objectives but did not progress through the legislative process.

What the Bill Would Allow

The bill proposes issuing three interactive gaming licenses and they could be applied for online sports betting operators, New York’s recognized tribes, video lottery terminal parlors, and the state’s land-based casinos.

This would include not only the four casinos already operational in downstate New York but also the three upcoming facilities due to open in upstate areas. The New York State Gaming Commission would oversee the licensing process.

Successful applicants would be required to pay a one-time fee of $2 million, while independent contractors tasked with providing an iGaming platform must pay $1 million. Moreover, the bill mandates participation in an affirmative action program approved by the Commission, reflecting a commitment to broader social objectives.

In addition to online casino gaming, the covers internet lottery sites and games. It would enable New Yorkers to participate in various interstate and out-of-state lottery games online, with the New York State Division of Lottery overseeing online ticket sales. If the bill passes, the laws will come into immediate effect.

Changes to Gambling Taxes

License holders will be taxed at a rate of 31.5% on the base taxable gross gaming revenue from iGaming. The bill also emphasizes the importance of responsible gambling, requiring operators to implement measures such as self exclusion options and restricting access to individuals over 21 years of age.

This legislative effort follows New York’s successful launch of online sports betting two years ago on January 10, 2022. The state has since emerged as a leading market in the U.S., with record-breaking revenues and betting handles reported in 2023.

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