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New York Lawmaker Introduces Casino Amendment

ALBANY, New York – As reported by the (Plattsburgh, New York) Press Enterprise: "A proposed constitutional amendment to allow non-Indian casinos in New York ties into a high-level strategy to leverage Indian casinos into the Catskills, top officials said Wednesday.

"The amendment introduced Wednesday is one of a long line of similar amendments, but it could be part of the strategy recently discussed in secret meetings between Gov. George Pataki, Senate Majority Leader Joe Bruno and Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, Silver said.

"…The strategy includes a proposed constitutional amendment eliminating the state ban on casinos owned by non-Indians.

"Last night, Sen. John Bonacic, a Mount Hope Republican frustrated with delays in bringing casinos to the Catskills, introduced the amendment legislation. Senate leadership has agreed to the proposal and it is expected to be adopted in the Assembly, officials said.

"…Bonacic's proposal would allow casinos in Sullivan, Ulster and Greene counties,

"..Silver is concerned that passing the proposal could lead Pataki to cut off negotiations with the tribes…"

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