In a bold and optimistic move for the world of iGaming, the dynamic duo behind the potential expansion of online gaming in New York—Sen. Joseph Addabbo Jr. (D-Howard Beach) and Assemblyman J. Gary Pretlow (D-Mount Vernon)—are gearing up for another legislative push in 2024.
Embracing the belief that the Empire State is on the brink of becoming the seventh state to embrace online poker and the eighth to welcome online casino gaming, the lawmakers envision a prosperous future that could potentially rake in a staggering $1 billion annually for the state.
Undeterred by past setbacks, Addabbo and Pretlow are diligently working on a bill that mirrors the successful framework of mobile sports betting.
Their envisioned legislation aims to create a secure and regulated environment for players, promising not only an exhilarating gaming experience but also a financial windfall for New York. This ambitious endeavor stands as a testament to their commitment to unleashing the untapped potential of New York online poker and New York casino gaming.
As chairmen of key committees in the New York legislature, Addabbo and Pretlow are well-positioned to influence the trajectory of iGaming in the state. Earlier attempts, represented by Addabbo’s A1380 and Pretlow’s S4856 bills, may not have reached fruition, but the lawmakers are determined to push through, armed with valuable lessons and insights gained from their past endeavors.
The Evolution of iGaming Legislation Across the USA
In tracing the path of iGaming legalization in the United States, it’s evident that the landscape has undergone a transformative evolution. The legal acceptance of online poker, casino gaming, and iLottery has become a trendsetter, with states reaping the benefits in terms of increased tax revenues. The notable success stories of Connecticut, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Illinois, and New Hampshire serve as beacons of encouragement for New York.
Online poker is live in four states: Michigan, New Jersey, Nevada, and Pennsylvania. It was live in Delaware until recently. It has been legalized in West Virginia and Connecticut, but no sites have launched there yet, though both have online casino. Rhode Island is expected to launch casino next year.
The lawmakers stress that this strategic move toward iGaming isn’t just about financial gains but also about ensuring a secure and responsible gaming environment. Drawing parallels with the success of mobile sports betting, Addabbo and Pretlow emphasize the significance of a legal mobile gaming market in curbing underage access and providing essential resources for individuals struggling with problem gaming—a crucial aspect that the illicit market fails to address.
As New York eagerly awaits its turn to embrace online poker and casino gaming, Addabbo and Pretlow’s unwavering optimism signals a pivotal moment in the state’s history. With lessons learned from their past endeavors, the lawmakers are poised to shape a future where legal iGaming not only entertains but also prioritizes player safety and responsible gaming practices.
The anticipated 2024 legislation might just usher in a new era for New York, placing it at the forefront of the thriving iGaming landscape. In anticipation of this groundbreaking legislation, industry experts predict that the advent of New York online poker and New York online casino platforms will not only redefine the state’s entertainment landscape but also stimulate job growth and tourism, positioning New York as a hub for responsible and dynamic iGaming experiences.
