Video Casino Games May Be Coming to New York
New York Republicans are joining other Party members around the country in advocating looser gambling laws, despite a controversial plank in the Republican Party platform denouncing gambling. Members of the New York Senate are looking to draw additional customers to state race tracks, thereby increasing state revenue.
To meet this goal, state Senator John J. Bonacic has authored a bill which would permit electronic or computerized versions of virtually any casino game to be legalized. While video slots are available at racinos in the state, Bonacic's proposal would allow video versions of blackjack, craps, and roulette to be installed at those locations.
Bonacic estimates the state could receive as much as $175 million by adopting his plan. He says the bill has the support of the Democratic chairman of the Racing and Wagering Committee, J. Gary Pretlow. Republicans are also asking to expand racino licenses to include the Belmont track.
If politicians think wagering at electronic casinos at race tracks is alright, how can there be an objection to playing at online casinos? Is there less harm done by forcing consumers to travel to race tracks, rather than gamble in the luxury of their homes? Perhaps legislators just need to be reassured that they will receive taxes, and all the sins of Internet gambling will be forgiven. After all, almost every law or political move against online gambling, especially including Kentucky Governor Beshear's court case, is a result of government seeking revenue.
