New York State Gambling Law

In New York State, the penal code 225.00 outlines all gambling laws to be upheld within the boundaries of New York.  In “The Empire State,” horse races are legalized and wagers can partake in pari mutuel betting activities safely.  However, gambling devices are illegal within the boundaries of the state of New York, unless they are owned and operated by Native American peoples.  Charitable organizations can hold events involving games of chance legally in “The Empire State,” and social forms of gambling are also permissible.

The gambling establishments in “The Empire State,” are owned by the Mohawk, Seneca, and Akwesasne Native American tribes, all of which offer gambling establishments in seven cities in New York State.  This month, federal authorities are looking to close down a temporary casino erected by the Seneca Tribe in a location in Buffalo, New York.   Meanwhile, the Seneca Tribe will be making legal efforts to appeal a decision handed down by a judge asserting that the temporary Buffalo casino will have to be shut down.  Federal Judge William Skretny turned his ruling over to the National Indian Gaming Commission in early July of 2008, and as of September of 2008, it appears that the casino’s doors will be closed.  It seems that in some instances, at least when it comes to gambling establishments, law makers in the state of New York behave in a totalitarian fashion, keeping a tight reign over casino establishments and offerings.  With such tight control over gambling endeavors, it seems that it will not be anytime soon that more gaming diversity will be introduced in “The Empire State.”

Current gambling endeavors offered in New York’s land based gambling establishments are minimal, to say the least.  While there are some diverse table gaming options presented to New Yorkers, the gambling sites in New York do not seem to have any slots devices to offer the gambling aficionado.  As of this current moment, it is a good thing that online virtual casino settings are legally off limits to New Yorkers.  Play from home options give New York gamblers a way to get at all of the popular slots games as well as all of the preferable table games from a single location without travel.  Quick sign up, easy navigation, beautifully designed software applications, fine account management, speedy game play and payment processing, make online virtual casinos are far more attractive gambling option.