According to a report, there is currently legislation before the New York State Senate which is looking to convert some state racetracks into racinos, including Vernon Downs
.
An article by oneidadispatch.com explains that such a move would require an amendment to the state constitution, and that it will need to be approved by the state Legislature before the end of the current session and again next year. If approved, the bill would go to a state-wide referendum and then each county would have the authority to create a home rule allowing the change.
The report goes on to say that, if passed, the bill would allow racinos full access to the gambling options the state’s Indian casinos have. Currently, Vernon Downs is allowed only to have video lottery terminals.
Assemblyman Bill Magee was quoted as saying, in regard to the legislation, that “I doubt it could get passed in the Assembly.”
(With files from oneidadispatch.com)