As the national political scene heats up, the governors of both New York and Kentucky are considering an expansion to the gambling laws in their states.
In New York, Governor Andrew Cuomo is planning a massive expansion to the Aqueduct Racetrack. According to reports, he is seeking to turn the facility into the world’s largest convention center. Operated by Genting New York, this massive structure could provide millions of dollars in tax revenue to a state currently facing a multi-billion dollar budget deficit.
Several factors currently stand in the way of the project, however. Mainly, there will need to be an amendment to the New York constitution which would permit a Las Vegas type casino and convention center to operate within the state’s borders. The governor, however, remains optimistic.
“We have long flirted and dallied with another potential economic engine, casino gaming, and when it comes to gaming, we have been in a state of denial,” said Cuomo. “It’s time we confronted reality.”
On the Kentucky front, newly re-elected Governor Steve Beshear is planning to bring the gambling industry into his state. The second-term Democrat has announced his intention to introduce an amendment to the state’s constitution which would permit the opening of nine casinos on Kentucky soil.
“The necessity of placing this issue on the ballot is obvious,” the governor said, “and I am encouraged that legislators in both parties are willing to work with me on it.”
As to the locations of these proposed sites, Beshear’s initial proposal will likely grant an on-site casino license to each of Kentucky’s eight functioning race tracks. According to iGaming Business, the site of the ninth casino is yet to be determined. In a state known for playing the ponies, these plans to wade further into the gaming fray should come as little surprise. With key senators in the state already being briefed on the proposed amendment, it would be something of an upset if Beshear’s plan didn’t go through.