New York State Representatives are set to discuss the legalization of online casino gaming as Rep. J. Gary Pretlow plans to introduce a bill that, if approved, will allow for the launch of online slots, tables games, and poker rooms.
The news follows a similar move by Sen. Joe Addabbo who has already introduced SB8412 to the Senate. The new bill to be filed in the House will be a companion bill to Sen. Addabbo’s proposed legislation.
However, Pretlow expects some pushback from lawmakers saying:
“There’s a lot of resistance in the Assembly. That’s not a secret. Everyone knows there’s resistance in the Assembly to this, but I want to overcome that resistance.”
Pretlow feels that the huge amounts being wagered through mobile sports betting apps could prove to be a hindrance to his cause adding:
“If anything, it might make it more difficult after how the rollout went, because people see there’s a large appetite for gambling. A lot of people are concerned that there’s too much gambling. Some people want to pull back a little.”
In previous attempts to legalize online casino gaming, the state has separated online poker and classified it as a game of skill. This was seen as a necessary step as it circumvented the need for a constitutional amendment. However, Pretlow believes that this has changed thanks to the success of mobile sports betting in New York.
“If we go by the same thought pattern as with mobile sports betting, that the server at a casino is where the bet is made, that should be the same as betting with online casino.”
According to Pretlow, if online casino gaming was done in partnership with the casinos, it would help push the legislation through as land-based casino operators would profit from an online market.
Addabbo’s bill proposes two online casino skins for each commercial and tribal casino.
However, Pretlow stressed that while he would introduce his companion bill in this legislative session, he would not be pushing for approval this year and that 2023 would be the earliest that online casinos could launch in the state.
Olivia has worked as an editor and writer for major brands across multiple niches. She now focuses on the iGaming and sports betting industries.