New York Assemblyman downplays chances of 2024 iGaming bill passing

Article by : Charles Perrin Jan 26, 2024

• 
• 

New York has little chance of emerging successful in its attempt to legalize iGaming this year.

That is the honest verdict of Assemblyman Gary Pretlow, who gave his thoughts on the news that New York Gov. Kathy Hochul would omit online casino revenue from the executive budget.

The development came just a few days after Senator Joseph Addabbo reintroduced the iGaming proposal through Senate Bill S8185 which included more detailed online casino language as well as one key addition – iLottery.

While Pretlow admitted he isn’t surprised the iGaming bill hasn’t gained more traction, he thinks it is unlikely that Hochul will change her mind this year.

He said: “I don’t see it going in the budget this year. More than likely, it won’t be in the Assembly one-house [budget].

“It wouldn’t be for a lack of trying, that’s just how things shake out.”

Pretlow thinks iGaming is a tough sell for legislators in New York, admitting it could be hard to persuade critics to perform a U-turn and pass a bill next year.

He added: “It’s probably not happening in 2025 unless there is a serious budget shortfall. The powers that be on the second floor [executive offices, including the governor’s office] really aren’t gung ho on gaming.

“I don’t believe she’s a great fan of it right now. The last couple of governors weren’t fans of gaming. She needs to be convinced.”

While Hochul’s reticence is far from surprising, it negates the potential that iGaming in New York could bring, with recent suggestions indicating the industry could rake in more than $1 billion in additional state revenues.

More pertinently, with a $9 billion budget deficit to plug in the 2025/2026 fiscal year, the iGaming issue has become pressing.

Gov. Hochul has dropped a curveball, but that won’t stop Addabbo from throwing in the towel, who will be desperate to find common ground.

So far, New York iGaming’s journey has been fraught with tension, but Addabbo will be hoping there is light at the end of what seems like a very long tunnel.