New York Legislators Hope to Jump-start Gambling Plan

ALBANY, New York -- As reported by Newsday: "Faced with plummeting state revenue, Gov. David A. Paterson and leaders of the legislative majorities hope to jump-start long-delayed plans for slotlike
  gambling machines at Aqueduct Racetrack in Queens.

"They've set May 8 for bids to construct and operate a gambling facility, known as a 'racino,' for the next 30 years. A deal with Delaware North Cos. fell through after it couldn't produce a $370-million upfront fee because of the recession. Paterson had been counting on the money to help close this year's budget deficit.

"Buffalo-based Delaware North is expected to bid again, along with rivals SL Green and Capital Play. Paterson, State Senate Majority Leader Malcolm Smith (D-St. Albans) and Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver (D-Manhattan) will select the winner. All are frustrated that gambling machines are still absent from Aqueduct eight years after being approved by the legislature..."