Casinos can’t be licensed in New York City until 2023, but the Las Vegas Sands wants to enter the market now. The company has turned to former Governor David Paterson to make the argument in New York. 

"I think moving the three licenses from 2023 to 2020 only brings new revenues into the state. I see it as an economic discussion as opposed to a discussion about gaming," Paterson said. 

Paterson is now a board member with Las Vegas Sands. He says a New York City casino would not lead to an over saturation of casinos in the northeast. New York has four commercial casinos in upstate New York, along with two Indian-run casinos and several racinos. Just this week, Rivers Casino in Schenectady began taking bets on sporting events. 

"Everything that was ever good becomes great when it’s in New York City, as an alternative for peoples’ entertainment and their wish to have the iconic facilities that exist in Las Vegas, right in their home city," Paterson said. 

But Republican Senator Daphne Jordan says there should be caution with allowing casinos in New York City. 

"Eventually that could be something that would be a plus, but right now, our casinos aren’t making it, and we’re making it harder for racinos," Jordan said. 

Jordan, a member of the Senate Racing And Wagering Committee, pointed to a coming study by state gaming regulators to review the casino market in New York. 

"I think it’s a good idea because we’re going to look at can the state handle more casinos. I think that also bides time, so we won’t rush into New York City casinos," Jordan said.

Governor Andrew Cuomo backed a casino amendment in 2013, but since then he has been hesitant to embrace further gambling law expansions.