New York Assemblyman Says Online Sports Betting On Track For Late January Launch
The best-case scenario for New York online betting appears to be the case, so far, anyway. NY Assemblyman Gary Pretlow recently shared an update on the progress of working out the regulatory framework and getting everything ready for launch day.
Pretlow stated that at least some of the nine licensed operators have completed their requisite deals to host their servers in the state. The ball is seemingly back in the state’s corner, with the NFL playoffs still in sight.
New York online betting launch progress continues
Assemblyman Pretlow recently told sister site PlayNY that operators have negotiated server-hosting deals with the state’s commercial casinos. Pretlow did not disclose whether all nine have done so or if that isn’t the case, which licensees are still working on that.
State law requires each of the operators to house their servers for their NY traffic in one of the four commercial casinos and pay that casino for the use of that space and utilities. It’s one of the most important steps toward going live in NY.
Pretlow continued that the apps “should be up by [the] end of January.” It’s un
clear right now whether all nine sportsbooks will launch simultaneously, separately, or in stages. NY Sen. Joseph Addabbo wants one launch date for all nine brands.
However, that isn’t yet part of the rules. In theory, each licensed operator can start taking bets in NY as soon as it gets the regulatory clearance. That’s what now stands between New Yorkers and being able to legally bet on their phones without leaving their state.
What regulators have left to tackle
As soon as servers are installed and running, it’s on regulators to inspect them for compliance. Regulators will also need to inspect all the other aspects of the product. That will include the end product; the actual apps and websites.
It’s possible for that to all happen within the next two weeks, though that might be an aggressive timeline for all nine licensees. If it comes to it, the state would probably prefer to get some operators live for as much of the NFL playoffs as opposed to missing out on revenue to allow for a simultaneous launch.
Operators have been silent thus far about their own progress but they would also probably like to get live as soon as possible. Each playoff game they miss in NY represents millions of dollars in handle lost.
If Pretlow is right, NFL wild card weekend in 2022 could have special significance for New Yorkers. It might see the onset of legal New York online betting on sporting events.
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