New York budget omits mobile betting

The state government of New York has opted to leave mobile sports betting out from the budget and removed it from the state budget.

The sports betting segment had already been approved back in January as the New York State Gaming Commission voted to approve its regulation in the state’s four private casinos. However, the mobile vertical was excluded due to the opposition from Governor Andrew Cuomo and got omitted from the state budget.

Senator Joseph Addabbo, an advocate of mobile sports betting, warned: “We’re sitting on the sidelines and letting our money go out of state.”

He says the segment would generate up to US$90 million through taxation and licence fees, but only if it gets approved.

Sports wagering would be allowed at the four privately-owned non-Indian-owned casinos. The commission only allowed sports betting at casinos, for which they must set up special lounges. Unlike New Jersey’s stance, no online or mobile bets will be legalised.