Debate Grows Over Legalizing Online Gambling in New York Beyond Mobile Sports Betting

State Senator Joe Addabbo, a leading advocate for iGaming in New York, argues that the state is missing out on a billion-dollar revenue stream already tapped by neighboring states like New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Addabbo stressed that iGaming could help fill looming budget gaps while also regulating a growing illegal market that lacks player safeguards.

“It’s a new product for us, and that money isn’t allocated anywhere yet,” Addabbo said, pointing to possible funding for healthcare, transportation, and veterans’ programs. More importantly, he noted that a legal iGaming market could protect players from the dangers of unregulated operators.

However, critics warn that expanding online gambling could come at a high cost. The New York Council on Problem Gambling raised concerns about the ease of access, warning that digital platforms make it far easier for vulnerable players to develop harmful habits compared to traditional, in-person gambling. The group urged lawmakers to include stronger safeguards, such as systems to detect risky betting patterns and excessive play.

Labor unions also stand firmly opposed. The Hotel and Gaming Trades Council argues that iGaming could drain business from physical casinos, putting thousands of jobs at risk. They compare the potential impact to the decline in racetrack attendance following the rise of Off-Track Betting in the 1970s.

“Our union rejects online gambling, also called iGaming, because it threatens our members’ jobs,” the organization stated.

Still, Addabbo insists that online gaming and land-based casinos can coexist. He emphasized opportunities for cross-promotion between Resorts World Casino and iGaming platforms, ensuring that expansion strengthens, rather than undermines, New York’s gaming industry.

“It’s an ever-changing landscape of technology which you cannot stop,” he said. “I believe we can write legislation that both protects jobs at retail casinos and allows New York to finally compete in the iGaming space.”

As budget pressures mount and illegal operators thrive, the debate over legalizing online casino gaming in New York is expected to intensify in the months ahead.