The prohibition was enacted eight years ago to allow four upstate casinos time to become established. Under state law, full-fledged Las Vegas-style casinos with dealers, real table games and sports betting opportunities are banned downstate until 2023. There is a similar casino in the city of Yonkers, just outside New York City.
Resorts World is New York City’s only casino, but it can only offer slot machines and electronic table games. “That would mean a lot for the community, especially the expansion, because that means more jobs, especially during a time like this with a pandemic,” said the guard, who lives nearby in Brooklyn. The guard says the potential windfall could bring more valuable jobs to the area.
The New York State Legislature is considering expanding Resorts World’s casino operations.
