New York State Senator Joseph Addabbo Jr. has warned that the decision on casino licenses for New York City may not be finalized until 2026 rather than late 2025, as initially expected, according to Sportsboom.
Key Takeaways
- Sen. Joseph Addabbo warns of potential delay in casino licensing.
- Legislative schedules could push a decision to 2026.
- The state’s gaming commission is currently looking at eight proposals.
Addabbo said legislative scheduling is the main reason for the delay, with the state legislature unable to reconvene until January. Proposals to legalize wagers on prop bets and individual sports awards like the Super Bowl MVP or the Heisman Trophy are also on hold.
The senator stressed that the delay risks both revenue and competitiveness, claiming the state is losing $1 billion per year, and that legalizing prop bets and awarding casino licenses are critical for addressing budget shortfalls.
The New York State Gaming Commission has received eight proposals for up to three downstate licenses, including plans for major developments in Queens, Manhattan, and Brooklyn. Community Advisory Committees are currently reviewing the applications, but their recommendations require a two-thirds vote and public hearings, further complicating the timeline.
Mamdani changes position on casino expansion
Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani, a longtime skeptic of casino expansion in New York City, recently revealed he will not try to block the projects.
Mamdani said after a rally with the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council, a union that strongly supports casino development, that although he had been open about his skepticism, he respects the will of voters who approved gambling expansion more than a decade ago.
His shift in stance reflects current political and economic realities. Casinos could be a major jobs engine, with developers pledging unionized positions across multiple boroughs.
Mamdani’s remarks also place him closer to rivals like Mayor Eric Adams, who has been an outspoken supporter of casino projects, and former governor Andrew Cuomo, who pushed for the 2013 constitutional amendment that legalized downstate casinos.
Nevertheless, Mamdani’s new position has frustrated some community groups and critics who argue casinos could raise housing costs, displace residents, and alter neighborhood character.
Residents clash at Coney Island hearing
The strong opinions on the issue were evident at a recent public hearing in Coney Island, where residents clashed over a proposed $3.4-billion resort and casino complex.
Residents packed into a YMCA gym to hear evidence and outline their views. Supporters of the project talked about the creation of a massive entertainment hub with restaurants, convention space, and thousands of jobs, making Coney Island a year-round destination.
But opponents warned it would lead to privatized public spaces, accelerated gentrification, and strains on infrastructure, traffic, and emergency response times.
The Coney Island Community Advisory Committee has until Sept. 30 to decide whether the project advances, and its decision will form part of the state’s selection process.
