New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli has proposed legislation that would require the state to review gaming compacts with Native American tribes every 10 years. The legislation is aimed at ensuring that the state receives its fair share of revenue from casinos operated by Native American tribes.

Under current law, the state has the authority to negotiate gaming compacts with Native American tribes that allow them to operate casinos on their land. In exchange for the right to operate casinos, the tribes are required to pay a percentage of their gaming revenue to the state.

However, these gaming compacts are often complex and can be difficult to understand. In addition, they can be subject to interpretation and may not always be enforced in the way that was intended. This can lead to disputes between the state and the tribes over revenue sharing and other issues.

The proposed legislation would require the state to review each gaming compact every 10 years to ensure that it is still in compliance with state law and that the state is receiving its fair share of revenue. The review would be conducted by the Comptroller’s office, which would have the authority to audit the tribes’ gaming operations and financial records.

The legislation has been met with mixed reactions. Supporters argue that it is necessary to ensure that the state is receiving its fair share of revenue from gaming operations. They point out that the state is facing a budget deficit and needs all the revenue it can get.

Opponents, however, argue that the legislation could be seen as an infringement on tribal sovereignty. They argue that the tribes have the right to operate casinos on their land and that the state should not interfere with their operations.

Despite these concerns, the legislation has gained support from some lawmakers and is currently being considered by the state legislature. If passed, it would represent a significant change in how gaming compacts are negotiated and enforced in New York State.

Overall, the proposed legislation represents an effort to ensure that the state is receiving its fair share of revenue from gaming operations. While it may be controversial, it is an important step towards ensuring that gaming compacts are fair and equitable for all parties involved.