Cuomo Looks to Expand Upstate Gambling Options

Governor Andrew Cuomo unveiled "phase one" of his vision to add the three casinos in upstate New York in his State of the State Address on Wednesday.

Cuomo's offer to limit the initial phase of casino expansion to three upstate sites has motivated racino operators to lobby harder for a chance to convert their slot facilities into Las Vegas-style gambling arenas.

On Thursday, Cuomo added to the blueprint, telling reporters that he wants to use casino-destination resort developments upstate as a magnet for the 50 million visitors to New York City, and to push tourism dollars into markets north of the metropolitan area.

The proposal was interpreted by some gambling industry officials as a slap to the New York Gaming Association, and the Racino Trade Group. Cuomo emphasized that racino operators currently market their facilities as casinos. His desire to add three more casinos upstate seemed to telegraph a disregard for the association's push for their sites to be authorized to offer table games in addition to video lottery terminals.

Cuomo said he wants to conduct competitive bidding from casino companies, which for business reasons would be unlikely to locate near racinos.