The road to legal online gambling in the state of New York has hit yet another snag. The issuance of a casino license for Downstate New York faces indefinite delays, potentially spelling trouble for the future of online gambling in the state. The casino, expected to be a key player in the market, now faces an extended timeline that could further postpone hopes for an iGaming launch.
License Timeline Extension
The committee responsible for recommending applicants for three downstate New York casino licenses aims to push back the selection deadline by nearly a year. If their proposal is accepted, it would delay what could become the nationâs most lucrative online casino gaming market.
The Gaming Facility Location Board recently set a request for application (RFA) deadline of June 27, 2025, for companies vying for one of the three casino bids. Board members believe this timeline ensures robust competition, community involvement, and compliance with legal requirements. It also allows applicants more time to navigate local environmental impact and zoning regulations.
Challenges and Opposition
This extended timeline contradicts the wishes of many potential applicants and runs counter to state lawmakersâ proposals. Earlier this year, the New York State Legislature overwhelmingly approved a bill to move up the RFA deadline to August 31, 2024. Proponents argue that this accelerated process would maintain investor confidence and expedite economic benefits. However, the current timeline could delay any iGaming launch until at least 2026, assuming the best-case scenario.
