Latest Survey Reveals Mixed Opinions on iGaming in New York

Survey Results

The survey, conducted within Senate District 15, provided insights into various hot topics, including iGaming, death with dignity, and the Queenslink transportation project.

The corrected survey results indicate that only 44% of participants support the introduction of iGaming in New York, while 33% are opposed. Additionally, 23% of respondents were uncertain about whether to authorize statewide iGaming.

In contrast to the mixed views on iGaming, other issues surveyed received more decisive support. For instance, 72% of participants favored the death with dignity proposal, with only 13% opposed. The Queenslink transportation project garnered 75% approval compared to another transportation initiative. Interestingly, the legalization of prostitution received 56% support, surpassing the approval rate for iGaming.

Legislative Context

The survey results come amid Addabbo’s legislative push to bring iGaming to New York. In January, he introduced Senate Bill S8185, which proposes establishing iGaming licenses for New York’s four downstate casinos, three forthcoming upstate casinos, state tribes, online sports betting operators, and Video Lottery Terminal (VLT) parlors like Resorts World NYC.

Furthermore, recent amendments to SB 8185, include a notable $25 million annual fund dedicated to supporting casino workers and addressing cannibalization concerns.

Addabbo argues that New York cannot afford to lag in embracing online casino gaming, especially given the state’s successful foray into online sports betting.

However, the latest survey results suggest that New York residents are pretty indifferent toward iGaming legalization, as almost 25% of the questioned group was uncertain about this cause.

Low support for iGaming legalization in New York reflects a broader trend in the U.S. Despite a successful statewide push to regulate sports betting, online casino regulations still raise concerns, that could be difficult to overcome soon.