On April 27, 2021, Governor Andrew Cuomo of New York signed an agreement with the Seneca Nation of Indians regarding gaming operations in the state. The agreement, which was reached after months of negotiations, will allow the Seneca Nation to continue operating its three casinos in western New York while also providing additional revenue to the state.

Under the terms of the agreement, the Seneca Nation will make payments to the state based on a percentage of its gaming revenue. This revenue-sharing arrangement is similar to those in place with other Native American tribes that operate casinos in New York. The payments will be made on a quarterly basis and will be used to support education, healthcare, and other public services in the state.

In addition to the revenue-sharing provisions, the agreement also includes measures to address concerns about problem gambling. The Seneca Nation has agreed to implement a self-exclusion program that will allow individuals to voluntarily ban themselves from the casinos for a specified period of time. The program will also provide resources for individuals who need help with gambling addiction.

The agreement has been praised by both the Seneca Nation and the state government. In a statement, Governor Cuomo said, “This agreement is a win-win for the Seneca Nation and the people of New York. It will provide much-needed revenue for our state while also ensuring that gaming operations are conducted in a responsible and sustainable manner.”

The Seneca Nation also expressed its satisfaction with the agreement. “We are pleased to have reached this agreement with the state of New York,” said Seneca Nation President Matthew Pagels. “It will allow us to continue providing jobs and economic opportunities for our people while also supporting important public services in the state.”

The Seneca Nation operates three casinos in western New York: the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino in Niagara Falls, the Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino in Buffalo, and the Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino in Salamanca. These casinos employ thousands of people and generate millions of dollars in revenue each year.

Overall, the agreement between the Seneca Nation and the state of New York represents a positive step forward for both parties. By working together to address concerns about problem gambling and ensure that gaming operations are conducted in a responsible manner, they have created a framework that will benefit the Seneca Nation, the state government, and the people of New York for years to come.