Pataki: My casinos bill would allow slot machines

Traditional slot machines are illegal in New York. But Pataki said Tuesday he would introduce a bill to allow the machines on Indian lands as part of a gaming compact as long as the state receives 25 percent of the revenues from the machines.

The provision is part of a package intended to speed up the construction of new casinos once they are approved by the federal government. Pataki said it is not clear whether the state ban on slots, contained in the state constitution, applies to Indian casinos, but his legislation would clear up the issue.

"This legislation would provide critical answers to important issues that could otherwise stall a casino for years," Pataki said. "By resolving these issues now, we can avoid lengthy court battles or legislative fights that could prevent a casino from being built."

The bill would also allow slot machines in the Turning Stone Casino in Verona, which is owned by the Oneida Indian Nation, according to Pataki spokesman Michael McKeon.

The bill also would require legislative and local authorization for a new casino to be built on non-reservation Indian land.

Seneca leaders have been negotiating with Pataki toward opening a Seneca-run casino off tribal land. The Mohawks also are seeking permission to place a casino at the Monticello Raceway, some 90 miles northwest of New York City.

However, anti-gambling groups have sued to stop the projects, saying Pataki can't sign the state into contracts without getting legislative approval first.

The federal government has yet to approve any new casinos in New York.

"Whether in the Catskills or in western New York, we must be in the best position to move forward if the federal government gives the go-ahead," Pataki said.

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