The Seneca Nation Casino agreement ends on December 9th, with discussions between the tribe and state authorities ongoing.
The agreement between the Seneca Nation and the state of New York for Class III gaming is set to expire on December 9. With only 33 days left, it seems likely that the current revenue-sharing deal will be prolonged.
The Seneca Nation owns and operates three upstate casinos: Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino, Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino, and Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino. They also operate game rooms and bingo halls in Irving, Salamanca, and Oil Spring.
The tribe has the exclusive rights to Vegas-style slot machines and table games west of State Route 14. These rights are included in the Class III gaming compact, which is about to end. The initial deal was struck in 2002 when George Pataki was governor.
The Senecas are hoping to expand their gambling empire with a new casino in the upstate region, possibly in Rochester. However, secret talks between the tribe and Governor Kathy Hochul's administration were met with fierce opposition from Rochester's leaders and the community.
Countdown
In June, Hochul and the Seneca Nation announced they had reached a new compact agreement. But once it was revealed that the deal allowed the tribe to build a fourth full-fledged casino, there was strong criticism from Rochester's leaders and citizens.
Hochul had to recuse herself from the negotiations due to her husband, William Hochul, being employed by Delaware North as its executive vice president and general counsel. Delaware North is a rival of the Senecas through its Finger Lakes Gaming & Racetrack.
William Hochul stopped working for Delaware North on August 15, 2023, and no longer receives any compensation from them. He also has no financial stake in the hospitality and gaming company. With Hochul's recusal no longer necessary, she has returned to the table with the Senecas to finalize the details.
Considering how little time is left before the expiration date, it's unlikely that a new deal can be completed to avoid an extension of the current arrangement. The state legislature would have to approve the terms Hochul negotiates with the Senecas, which would necessitate a special session. Additionally, the Senecas also need to have a referendum to secure the support of their members for the new revenue-sharing terms. Following this, the document would then be presented to the US Department of the Interior's Bureau of Indian Affairs for ratification. This review could take up to 45 days.
Prolonged Deal
It's simpler to extend the existing Class III compact with fewer required approvals. Hochul and Seneca Nation President Rickey Armstrong Sr. can do this themselves.
During the extension period, the Senecas would have the state's share of the revenue under the current terms sent to an escrow account. Once the contract comes to an end, the state would get what it's owed. There is no time limit for how long the extension can last.
The current compact requires the Senecas to hand over 25% of their gross slot win to the state.
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Source: www.casino.org
