Several New York gambling online issues are still unresolved after the conclusion of the 2019 NY state legislature. In 2018, Assemblyman Gary Pretlow announced that, entering this year’s legislative session, his priority would be focused on sports betting.
Over the past year, sixteen US states have passed legislation permitting sports betting. The New York state legislature has been adjourned for the year, and although the state of online gambling in New York remains uncertain, progress was made in terms of sports betting.
Comprehensive Bill Passed
A sweeping bill has been passed that allows online sports betting at only four casinos (as well as the seven Native American casinos in New York). Sport betting licenses can start accepting sports bets by the start of the 2019/20 NFL.
Unfortunately, NY punters, poker lovers, and casino lovers will have to wait until 2020 for the online and mobile sports wagering, as well as the online poker bill, to be discussed. Mobile sports betting was not put to a vote, despite having the support to pass in the Assembly.
Unresolved New York Gambling Online Issues
Some of the issues at hand are whether the New York State Constitution will permit online gambling. If the legislature were able to introduce and pass a constitutional amendment, it is unclear whether Governor Cuomo would approve of the amendment. The governor is not convinced that the legislation will impact tax revenues related to gambling.
The online poker bill was passed in 2016 and 2017, but was stalled in the Assembly. After three years, it is unclear why there is a holdup on online poker. Senator Joseph Addabbo Jr and Assemblyman Pretlow both reintroduced companion online poker bills; however, none of the bills were advanced out of committee. The governor also has concerns about realigning with the expansion of gaming in New York, and as it stands, 2020 will be the year when more gambling issues will be tackled.
