So even with strong support among powerful leaders, Genting and MGM would still need to emerge from a lengthy review process.Īnd there’s another factor being contemplated: It’s unclear where a third casino would go if two of the licenses end up in Queens and Yonkers. If approved, the state Gaming Commission would establish a bidding process to apply for the licenses, similar to how four upstate casinos were picked in 2014. Kathy Hochul proposed a state budget last month that would move up the timeline, setting off high-stakes negotiations among casino giants to get a foothold in New York City - the largest untapped gambling market in the nation. State law does not allow the new licenses to be given out until 2023, but Gov. So if we can do a conversion, then it’s a slam dunk for Genting and MGM.”
“We’re looking more toward conversion: if you can convert an existing facility to a full-fledged casino, then that would be acceptable,” said Assembly Racing and Wagering Chair Gary Pretlow (D-Mount Vernon).
