ALBANY, N.Y. (WKBW) — On Monday, the New York State Gaming Commission approved the NYS Senate's proposal to legalize sports gambling in New York State. This could become effective in April. Online and mobile betting would not be legalized.
The legalization is pending a 60-day public comment period.
Once passing the 60-day public comment period, sports betting would be legal in state licensed casinos, which would include Native American owned casinos. This will include the Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino, and the Seneca Niagara Resort and Casino.
Those casinos would have to apply for a "sports pool license" from the Gaming Commission. That would be in addition to their current gambling license.
Sports betting would only be allowed in "sports wagering lounges" unless the Commission agrees otherwise. No wagering tickets can be sold outside of those zones. The lounges must be identified with signage, and will have automated ticketing kiosks.
This ruling allows betting on professional and certain collegiate sports (depends on the Gaming Commission). Casinos still cannot allow betting on horse racing, amateur sports, and non-sporting events.
Anyone placing a bet must be 21, and the casinos will be taxed on profits.
