Seneca Nation Compact Bill Slows in State Assembly Over Rochester Casino Rumors

The Seneca Nation and state officials last week made the surprising announcement that the two sides had reached an agreement in principle for a new 20-year, Class III gaming compact.

Seneca Nation New York gaming compact
Rochester is reportedly being targeted by the Seneca Nation for a casino development. The rumbling has some lawmakers in Albany concerned, as New York Gov.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) recused herself from the discussions because her husband works in an executive capacity for a company that directly competes against the Seneca gaming properties in upstate New York. The negotiations were instead managed by two Hochul aides who were given the authority to handle the talks on her behalf. However, the final agreement requires Hochul’s signature.

Once the governor and Senecas find common ground, which they say they did last week, the revenue-sharing agreement requires legislative approval from the New York State Assembly. After the state Senate quickly passed a bill authorizing Hochul to sign a new Class III pact with the Senecas, the measure stalled in the Assembly where some lawmakers voiced concerns about rumors that the contract will allow the tribe to open a new casino in Rochester.
 
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