NY gov pushes idea of sharing wealth of casinos
NY governor pushes idea of sharing casino revenues throughout a gambling facility's region
ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) -- New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo wants any future new casinos to provide revenue to several counties surrounding each one, not just the county that's host to the facility.
That could make the politically difficult issue more acceptable to far more voters in a statewide referendum required to expand casino gambling beyond Indian lands.
Cuomo on Wednesday proposed three casinos at undetermined upstate locations.
Voters would have to approve the idea in a referendum this year or next year.
New York traditionally provides a cut of profits only to the county where a casino is located to offset the cost of additional police and fire protection and other services.
Polls show New Yorkers are torn over expanding casino gambling beyond video slot machines at race tracks.
Cuomo continues negotiations with lawmakers.
