Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. (D-Queens) has indicated that intends to work towards beginning the process of legalizing full casino gaming
A more recent Siena College poll found that 57 percent of New Yorkers surveyed would allow non-Indian-run casinos to be built around the state, compared with 36 percent opposed. All groups support casinos,
Governor Cuomo, Mayor Bloomberg, Senate Republican Leader Dean Skelos and most recently, Democrat Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, have all indicated their support as well.
"Rather than see the money keep going to Connecticut, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Indian casinos upstate, in this stagnant economy I believe we must start the process, including public input, for the expansion of VLT racinos into full casino gaming to increase our revenues and to boost education initiatives,” Addabbo stated.
The senator is working with the operators of Resorts World, the racino at Aqueduct, to ensure a partnership that benefits the surrounding communities exists for many years.
There are even programs in place in order to work with those in the community who believe they have a gambling addiction and need assistance.
“There is much more to offer at Resorts World than just gambling,” Addabbo added.
“People can go there to enjoy the restaurants, live entertainment, food court, buffet, and eventually, other amenities.”
Addabbo wants to initiate the discussion in Albany to advance the New York State Constitutional change to allow full gaming. That process requires the measure to be voted on by the State Legislature and once it is passed in two consecutive sessions, it is followed by a vote by the public in a referendum.
“The smart bets are that voters would want to amend the NYS Constitution and 'let the games begin' -- making it a win-win situation for the economy of our state and for our people," Addabbo said.
From The G-Man posed a series of questions on this issue, and Senator Addabbo offered the following comments.
G-Man: For those that may not be aware, what does the New York State Constitution state regarding casino gambling?
Senator Addabbo: Gambling is prohibited in New York State, unless on American-Indian reservation/land.
G-Man: Why have previous attempts to amend the regulation failed?
Senator Addabbo: Unsure, but, as previously noted, recent polls state most New Yorkers favor a Constitutional amendment to allow full gaming.
G-Man: Some say Atlantic City has proved to be a successful venture, while others cite the alarming and undeniable increase in crime, homelessness, poverty and unemployment in the area. Are you concerned that the same thing will happen if casinos are built in Queens?
Senator Addabbo: I am concerned about many related issues, and I intend to address them all, once the casino is operational.
G-Man: In the past, community activists have opposed bringing casinos to Queens because of the specter of organized crime. Will their concerns be taken into consideration as you move forward with efforts to amend the regulation?
Senator Addabbo: I intend to work with the NYS Lottery Division, Genting and other governmental agencies to ensure the legitimacy of Resorts World.
G-Man: If successful in your bid and casinos are allowed to be built in Queens, how many long-term jobs are likely to be created?
Senator Addabbo: An additional 500-1500 jobs, not including those created with future growth: for example, a convention center.
G-Man: Will those jobs be offered solely to people within your district?
Senator Addabbo: The open application process allows anyone regardless of residence to apply for jobs there.
G-Man: When you served in the City Council, you represented the Rockaways, which has been mentioned as a potential casino site for years. Would you be in favor of having casinos built in the Rockaways, too?
Senator Addabbo: I am in favor of an open and transparent process which includes public input with regard to future casino sites.
G-Man: Taking a rough guess, how much revenue would Queens casinos generate for the state and what do you suspect would be done with the money?
Senator Addabbo: Since Resorts World is the first of its kind in the city, revenues are difficult to predict. A certain portion of the monies from the casino get allocated to the education provisions in the state budget and also to its General Fund.
G-Man: What SHOULD be done with the money generated from Queens casinos?
Senator Addabbo: I will work toward funding going to the communities from Resorts World.
G-Man: With thousands of people losing jobs and other income sources, and no clear indication of when the economy will pick up, why do you believe this is a good time to push this initiative?
Senator Addabbo: At this single site, approximately 1500 construction jobs and 1500 post-construction jobs were created for Phase I of Resorts World, with additional job openings to follow.
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