Senator Addabbo’s Persistent Push for Online Poker Legalization in New York
Senator Joseph Addabbo remains steadfast in his pursuit to legalize internet gambling in New York, undeterred by the state’s ongoing financial challenges.
Despite facing setbacks in previous attempts, Addabbo has introduced a new bill, SB9226, focusing solely on online poker, in a strategic shift aimed at overcoming legislative hurdles.
A New Approach with SB9226
SB9226 marks a departure from previous efforts, presenting a more targeted approach to online gambling legislation. The bill proposes regulations specifically tailored to online poker, including provisions for 10 operator licenses and a modest 15% tax rate. By narrowing the focus to poker, Addabbo aims to garner bipartisan support and navigate the complexities of New York’s legislative landscape.
Leveraging Success in Mobile Sports Betting
Addabbo sees the success of mobile sports betting in New York as a promising precedent for the expansion of iGaming offerings. By capitalizing on the popularity of poker, he hopes to diversify the state’s gaming portfolio and tap into new revenue streams.
Bipartisan Support and Potential Challenges
Legislation sponsored by Assemblyman J. Gary Pretlow, AB1380, aligns with Addabbo’s efforts, indicating bipartisan backing for online poker laws. However, past resistance from the Assembly and Governor Kathy Hochul’s silence on online gambling revenue in the state budget for 2024 raise concerns about the bill’s prospects.
Hope Amid Uncertainty
Despite the prevailing skepticism, proponents argue that advancing online poker legislation could pave the way for broader acceptance of online gambling in New York. The fate of SB9226 and AB1380 hangs in the balance as stakeholders await Governor Hochul’s stance on the issue.
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