"New York State Senate Supports Bill for $8 Billion Casino Near Citi Field"

Read "New York State Senate Supports Bill for $8 Billion Casino Near Citi Field" on WALY Radio

"New York State Senate Supports Bill for $8 Billion Casino Near Citi Field"

[!CDATA[The state Senate's top Democrat has given his support to a bill that would allow Mets owner Steve Cohen to bid for an $8 billion casino near Citi Field. Senate Deputy Majority Leader Michael Gianaris endorsed the legislation, which passed the Assembly last week, to rezone the area around the stadium for commercial use. This move paves the way for Cohen and Hard Rock to vie for a casino license from the state Gaming Commission. Gianaris emphasized that the bill does not guarantee a casino at the site but merely permits applications from potential candidates. Despite opposition from some lawmakers, including Queens Sen. Jessica Ramos, who cited her constituents' disapproval of the casino project, other senators like John Liu have shown support for the proposal. Senate Racing, Gaming, and Wagering Committee Chairman Joe Addabbo expressed his opposition but acknowledged the bill's likely passage. Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano urged the state to grant full casino licenses to Yonkers establishments, MGM Empire City Casino, and Resorts World Aqueduct racino, following the withdrawal of a bid for a casino complex in Hudson Yards. The state Gaming Commission is set to award up to three casino licenses by the end of the year, with each recipient required to pay a $500 million license fee. The competition for these licenses is heating up, with various stakeholders vying for the opportunity to operate lucrative casino complexes in New York. The decision on these licenses will have significant economic implications for the state and local governments, as they seek to bolster their revenues amid potential budget shortfalls.]]