New York Gambling Laws

Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed June 20, 2016

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When it comes to gambling, whether it's horse-racing or slot machines, the gaming industry is regulated at the state level. Given the different histories of each state, it is no surprise that gambling laws amongst the states range from extremely tolerant of gambling to highly regulated. The most common types of gambling in the United States include: commercial casinos, horseracing, parimutuel gambling, charitable gambling (in which revenues go towards charitable organizations), tribal casinos, and the state lottery.

In New York, gambling laws have historically limited gambling to casinos on Indian reservations and allow betting on horse racing. But times are changing in the Empire State. In 2013, voters approved an amendment to the New York constitution that allows Las Vegas-style casinos in the state.

The following table highlights the basics of New York’s laws pertaining to gambling. See Details on State Gambling Laws for a general overview.

Code Section

Penal Code §225.00 et seq.; 47A:101 et seq.; RW&B 47A§518

Gambling

Staking or risking something of value upon the outcome of a contest of chance or a future contingent event not under person's control, upon an agreement that he/she will receive something of value, given a certain event.

Horse Racing/Off-Track Betting

Licensed horse and harness racing legal. Off-track parimutuel wagering at licensed facilities legal.

Dog Racing/Off-Track Betting

Not specified.

Casinos Allowed?

Up to 7 new casinos will be permitted, in addition to 5 Indian-run casinos upstate.

Other Kinds of Gambling-Related Activities Allowed or Banned

Promoting gambling; possession of gambling records; bookmaking; possession of gambling devices illegal. Games of chance sponsored by bona fide charitable organizations allowed. Social, private gambling allowed.

Note: State laws are constantly changing -- contact a New York gaming attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.

More Information

You can find additional information and resources relating to New York gambling laws by clicking on the links provided below. You may also find it helpful to consult FindLaw’s article, Details on State Gambling Laws, as it is a helpful resource if you would like more information on the topic, in general. Finally, if you’re facing a gaming-related issue or have more specific questions, consider speaking with a local gaming attorney.

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