In a surprising turn of events, New York Governor Kathy Hochul has decided to forgo a special legislative session to address the issue of online gambling in the state. This decision has left many lawmakers and stakeholders in the gambling industry scratching their heads, as the push for legalizing online gambling has been gaining momentum in recent months.
Hochul’s decision comes as a shock to many, as she had previously expressed support for expanding online gambling in the state. In fact, just last month, Hochul had indicated that she was in favor of legalizing online sports betting to generate much-needed revenue for the state.
However, in a statement released earlier today, Hochul cited the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic as the reason for her decision to forgo the special legislative session. She stated that her administration’s top priority at the moment is addressing the public health crisis and ensuring the safety and well-being of all New Yorkers.
This decision has not been without controversy, as proponents of legalizing online gambling argue that it could provide a much-needed boost to the state’s struggling economy. In recent years, neighboring states such as New Jersey and Pennsylvania have seen significant revenue growth from online gambling, and many believe that New York is missing out on a lucrative opportunity by not moving forward with legalization.
In response to Hochul’s decision, State Senator Joseph Addabbo, who has been a vocal advocate for expanding online gambling in New York, expressed disappointment. He stated, “It’s a missed opportunity for the state to bring in much-needed revenue and create jobs for New Yorkers. I hope that the Governor reconsiders her decision and works with us to move this important issue forward.”
On the other hand, opponents of online gambling have praised Hochul’s decision, arguing that it is important to prioritize public health and safety over potential revenue gains. They have also raised concerns about the potential negative impacts of online gambling, such as addiction and financial hardship for vulnerable populations.
As New York continues to navigate the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the future of online gambling in the state remains uncertain. It is clear that the debate over this issue is far from over, and stakeholders on both sides will continue to advocate for their positions in the months to come.
