New York legislators have passed a new bill which transfers the tax payments submitted by commercial casinos from the state’s Gaming Commission to the New York Racing Association (NYRA), following a deadlock between the regulator and Resorts World New York City.
The New York State Gaming Commission had previously determined Resorts World New York City owed the state $150m per year in horseracing subsidiaries, but the operator released a statement celebrating the decision on June 5.
"We are grateful that the Legislature made the necessary changes allowing for the state gaming commission to directly distribute funds to the horse racing industry,” Resorts World New York City Spokesman Stefan Friedman said.
“Resorts World NYC was consistent throughout the bidding process – in all submissions, financial modeling and testimony – that our inclusive tax rate of 56 percent on slots would go towards the MTA, the State Education fund and the horse-racing industry, in addition to the 30 percent tax rate on tables that further funds the MTA and Education.
“We are also already delivering on our promise that at those rates, each entity will receive more funding from us than from any other private enterprise in New York's history. With this issue resolved, we look forward to working in partnership with the state and continuing our standing as New York's largest taxpayer."
The new legislation “would not determine who ultimately owes the money, but is meant to protect racetracks against any potential loss of funding.”
Governor Kathy Hochul also spoke on the bill’s passing, having said, “Given the ongoing dispute between the Gaming Commission and Resorts World regarding racing support payments, this legislation is designed to ensure that the racing industry, which has long relied on similar funding, does not suffer adverse consequences.”
The Gaming Commission originally awarded casino licenses to Resorts World New York City, Metropolitan Park and Bally's Bronx in December 2025, while the Genting Group property became the first in New York to offer table games on April 28.
The New York Lottery launched its new campaign ‘Can You Imagine?’ on May 18, developed with advertising partner McCann New York and featuring two 30-second clips filmed around the city
