State Sen. Joseph Addabbo has released the results of a survey that provides insights into how his constituents feel about the potential authorization of online casinos in New York.
Addabbo’s office released on Monday revised results of a Senate District 15 poll that includes overall voting percentages on a variety of hot topics, including iGaming, death with dignity, and Queenslink, a proposed $8.1 billion public transportation project.
Addabbo included iGaming in the poll amid a legislative effort to bring the industry to the Empire State. The lawmaker introduced Senate Bill S8185 in January as a measure that establishes iGaming with licenses available to New York’s four downstate casinos and three forthcoming upstate casinos. Under the bill, licenses can also be awarded to state tribes, online sports betting operators, and VLT parlors, including Resorts World NYC.
The Senator’s survey, which was corrected after an error, found that only 44% of participants are in favor of iGaming in New York while 33% oppose the gambling sector. The survey also found that 23% of participants were unsure of whether to authorize statewide iGaming.
By comparison, Addabbo’s constituents voted 72% in favor of death with dignity with 13% being opposed. The Queenslink development found favor with 75% of participants compared to another project. The legalization of prostitution even garnered better results than iGaming with 56% of Addabbo’s constituents showing support of the industry.
Mixed feelings in New York
Outside of Addabbo’s district, iGaming has caught the attention of casino employees and gambling advocacy groups. Earlier this year, Bet on NY voiced support for iGaming as a way to improve the Empire State’s budget deficit. The group, backed by Sports Betting Alliance, estimates iGaming could generate up to $1 billion in additional tax revenue.
Despite the ability to create a new stream of revenue, iGaming has received backlash from hospitality workers in New York. Addabbo’s bill is being opposed by more than 650 employees at Resorts World. In February, the group signed a letter accusing the lawmaker of threatening their jobs with the potential authorization of iGaming in New York.
The group, which has members backed by labor unions, also believes iGaming could impact the ability of brick-and-mortar casinos to drive profits due to a lack of spending.
Addabbo’s measure is currently in the Senate Racing, Gaming and Wagering Committee.
