Authorizes gambling on professional sporting events

BILL NUMBER:S2411

Title of bill

CONCURRENT RESOLUTION OF THE SENATE AND ASSEMBLY proposing an amendment to section 9 of article 1 of the constitution, in relation to authorizing gambling on professional sporting events

Purpose or general idea of bill

To permit wagering on professional sporting events at thoroughbred and harness racetracks and off track betting simulcast theaters (teletheaters) throughout New York.

Summary of specific provisions

Section 1 amends section 9 of article 1 of the Constitution to authorize by the Legislature for thoroughbred and harness tracks and off track betting simulcast theaters to be able to accept wagering on professional sporting events.

Effects of present law which this bill would alter

The State Constitution prohibits gambling of any kind unless specifically permitted by an amendment.

Justification

As New York grapples with the effects of the "Great Recession", revenue to the state has plummeted, effecting the level of services provided to the citizenry. This is compounded with the raising of taxes and fees to stem the developing budget gaps. Estimates of illegal sports betting in the United States vary widely, but range as high as $380 billion a year, according to the National Gaming Impact Study Commission. By legalizing and regulating such wagering New York can tap into a lucrative and steady revenue stream paid out to the State and local municipalities, thus alleviating onerous property taxes while providing aid to education and relief to our highly taxed citizenry.

This Concurrent resolution will allow the wagering on professional sporting events at thoroughbred and harness racetracks and off track betting simulcast theaters and will assist in revitalizing the State's economy.

Legislative history

2010: S.6061 Held in Judiciary

Fiscal implications

No negative implications.

Effective date

RESOLVED (if the Assembly concur), that the foregoing amendments be referred to the first regular legislative session convening after the next succeeding general election of members of the assembly, and, in conformity with section 1 of article 19 of the constitution, be published for 3 months previous to the time of such election.