New York is once again weighing the possibility of legalizing online poker and casino games. Senator Joseph Addabbo Jr., a long-time advocate for iGaming legislation, has introduced SB 2614 to create a regulatory framework for online gambling in the state. Addabbo’s push follows similar efforts in recent years, none of which managed to advance through the legislature.
If enacted, SB 2614 would update the state’s Racing, Pari-Mutuel Wagering, and Breeding Law. The proposed bill sets a 30.5% tax rate on gross gaming revenue for licensed operators. It also requires a $2 million licensing fee for operators and a $10 million fee for contractors offering branded gaming platforms. Each license would permit operators to run a single branded platform, a structure that aligns with previous proposals.
The legislation outlines provisions for table games, slot games, live dealer games hosted within New York, and peer-to-peer poker. However, the bill does not include measures for joining interstate gambling agreements like the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA), which pools online poker players across participating states. While Addabbo has previously highlighted the potential benefits of such agreements, it remains unclear if this will be addressed in future versions of the legislation.
New York’s efforts to legalize online gambling date back to 2013, with several attempts falling short of committee approval. Addabbo remains optimistic about the potential for regulated online gaming to generate tax revenue and create jobs. Critics, however, argue that online gambling could negatively impact land-based casinos and exacerbate social issues like addiction. These concerns, voiced by unions representing casino workers and advocacy groups, remain a hurdle for the legislation.
The legislative session begins in 2025, and New York joins a growing list of states exploring online gaming laws. While challenges persist, the ongoing discussions reflect the state’s interest in moving forward with iGaming regulation.
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