If online casino operators push employment expansion, lawmakers will listen
New York Senator Joseph P. Addabbo Jr. has recently expressed his agreement with a proposal that could significantly impact the future of iGaming legislation in the state. Yesterday, Addabbo shared a statement endorsing an idea put forth by gaming attorney Daniel Wallach. Wallach, in an opinion piece published in Forbes, suggested that guaranteeing the preservation of land-based casino jobs could help push future iGaming bills through the state legislature.
Addabbo has been a strong advocate for iGaming in the Empire State, introducing an online casino bill annually. Despite his efforts, the 2024 bill that aimed to legalize online casinos, poker, and iLottery failed to gain traction, largely due to opposition from the New York Hotel Trades Council (HTC), a powerful union representing casino workers. The union feared that the introduction of iGaming would take apart revenue from brick-and-mortar casinos, leading to potential job losses for its members.
Wallach’s suggestion, which received attention from industry experts, including Steve Ruddock, proposes that future iGaming legislation should include provisions to protect existing casino jobs. Addabbo, in his statement, emphasized the importance of safeguarding these jobs, acknowledging that this approach could be key to advancing iGaming in New York.
The senator highlighted the potential benefits of this legislative strategy, noting that it could not only prevent job losses but also lead to employment growth at physical casino locations. He believes that with thoughtful legislation, New York could serve as a model for other states looking to introduce iGaming while protecting their workforce.
Addabbo also pointed out the broader benefits of legalizing iGaming, including the creation of thousands of union jobs, addressing gambling addiction concerns, and generating billions in sustainable revenue for the state. His support for Wallach’s proposal signals a new direction in the push for iGaming legalization in New York, with a focus on balancing innovation with the protection of existing jobs.
