Gov. Hochul vetoes a measure that would have expedited the licensing process
New York Governor Kathy Hochul is facing criticism after vetoing a bill that would have established clear deadlines for the licensing process of three downstate casinos. The bill, known as S9673A, aimed to set a timeline for the submission of casino applications and subsequent decisions. While its first proposed deadline had already passed, the bill sought to add structure to what critics call a disorganized process.
Under the current schedule from the New York State Gaming Commission (NYSGC), applications are due by June 27, 2025, with licenses expected to be awarded by December 31, 2025. The vetoed bill proposed a similar licensing deadline but would have pushed for applications to be submitted by August 31, 2024, allowing for an earlier start.
Governor Hochul defended her decision, stating that altering the process now would give an unfair advantage to some bidders. She emphasized the importance of adhering to the established framework, which requires applicants to work with local governments to ensure compliance with zoning laws.
State Senator Joseph Addabbo Jr., who sponsored the bill, expressed disappointment in the veto. He argued that codifying a timeline would bring much-needed transparency and momentum to the stalled process. Addabbo also highlighted the economic benefits at stake, including the creation of thousands of union jobs and over $2 billion in projected funding for the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA).
Addabbo announced plans to reintroduce revised legislation, incorporating the governor’s timeline to begin applications in June 2025. He maintained that adding statutory deadlines would lend credibility to the process without disrupting ongoing efforts.
With 11 proposed casino projects vying for licenses, the debate underscores tensions between expedience and fairness in New York’s highly competitive gambling industry. Stakeholders continue to push for clarity as the licensing timeline remains in flux.
