New York Online Casino Legislation Unlikely to Meet June 4 Deadline

(AsiaGameHub) –   New York’s move toward legalizing online casinos is likely to be delayed for another year, as Senator Joseph Addabbo stated that the proposal does not have enough backing to pass before the June 4 legislative deadline.

Key Points

• New York lawmakers are not expected to vote on online casino gaming before June 4.
• Sen. Joseph Addabbo said Gov. Kathy Hochul remains the main obstacle.
• Addabbo also wants New York to regulate prediction markets instead of banning them.

Senator Joseph Addabbo, who leads the Senate Racing, Gaming and Wagering Committee, noted that an online gaming bill is unlikely to undergo a committee hearing or receive a floor vote in either the Senate or Assembly before lawmakers adjourn in Albany.

The Senate and Assembly could potentially approve the measure, but Addabbo emphasized that this would be meaningless without support from Governor Hochul:

“We could pass it in the Senate, we could pass it in the Assembly and then the governor would probably not sign it. So I’m not going to waste anyone’s time here.”

A spokesperson for Hochul provided a more restrained response in an email to Gambling.com on Monday, May 11. Gordon Tepper stated that the governor “will review any legislation that passes” both chambers.

Addabbo Maintains Focus on iGaming

For New York to legalize any form of casino gaming, sports betting, or related gambling, full approval from both the Senate and Assembly is required before the bill can reach the governor. Currently, Addabbo sees no clear pathway for online casino gaming in 2026.

However, he does not view the issue as whether New York will eventually legalize iGaming. Instead, he sees it as a matter of timing. Addabbo plans to continue advocating for online casino gaming each year until the state takes action.

During a video interview with Gambling.com program “The Edge,” Addabbo also discussed prediction markets, sports betting taxes, and prop bets.

Prediction markets played a significant role in his argument. Addabbo argued that New York should establish regulations for these markets rather than attempting to prohibit them. In his opinion, regulation would allow the state to collaborate with legitimate operators, generate revenue, and provide residents with a safer alternative.

“Every year that goes by that we don’t regulate prediction markets gives me more ammunition and more data and more justification to regulate it in New York,” Addabbo remarked.

Additionally, Addabbo opposed a ban on prop bets, pointing out that neighboring states already permit such wagers. He warned that a prohibition would encourage New Yorkers to bet outside the state or travel across state lines.

For supporters of online casino gaming in New York, the primary challenge remains securing political support. While Addabbo can keep the iGaming bill active, its passage will likely depend on clearer endorsement from Hochul and broader consensus within the Legislature.