New York Governor Kathy Hochul has vetoed legislation that would have accelerated the selection process for three downstate casino licenses. The vetoed bill, Senate Bill 9673A, aimed to require casino developers to submit their applications by August 31, 2024, and expedite the review process.

Hochul justified her decision by stating that changing the timeline mid-process would unfairly advantage certain bidders while disadvantaging others. The current timeline, managed by the New York Gaming Facility Location Board, sets the application deadline for June 27, 2025, with final decisions expected in late 2025.

State Senator Joseph Addabbo, the bill's primary sponsor, argued that expediting the process could provide immediate state revenue of $1.5 billion through the required $500 million licensing fees from each casino.

The veto comes amid controversy surrounding:

• Hochul's handling of the Manhattan congestion pricing plan
• Allegations of favoritism toward Steve Cohen's $8 billion Citi Field casino bid
• Questions about land-use reform affecting casino development

The governor maintains she is not directly involved in determining which casino companies receive licenses for slot machines, table games, and sports betting privileges. This decision keeps the original timeline intact, with winners expected to be announced in fall or winter 2025.

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