Albany, NY – Today, Members of the Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic, and Asian Legislative Caucus hosted a new episode of “Caucus Corner'' for the 2024 legislative session. Caucus Corner is an audio series initiated by members to discuss and analyze major Caucus priorities from its annual People’s Budget with policy experts and community-based organizations from across the state. Additionally, Caucus members are able to increase support for various initiatives and campaigns.

Listen to the program here on Spotify 

While the revenue generated from activities such as commercial betting, horse racing, sports wagering, and fantasy sports can be utilized to support and improve our communities, it's crucial to recognize the potential pitfalls. Gambling addiction can ensnare individuals in a destructive cycle, where the pursuit of a win leads to financial distress. This episode sheds light on both the positive and negative aspects of the industry & features members of the Senate and Assembly Racing and Wagering Committee. as well as an advocate who combats problem gambling in New York.

“When I visited casinos in recent memory, as a member of the Racing and Wagering Committee, I saw a lot of people working the tables from our community. The job aspect is a very important part of this industry to economically uplift our communities.” said Chair of the Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic & Asian Legislative Caucus, Assemblymember Michaelle Solages.

“Prior to the legalization of several gaming opportunities, people were gambling online, and with entities outside of the country, people were running the risk of having their identity stolen because they didn’t know who they were gambling with,” said Chair of the Assembly racing and wagering Committee Assemblymember J. Gary Pretlow. “There are protections now for people gaming legally in the state of New York, and I’m excited to say that the tax revenue has been phenomenal. This is why we can have the contribution to the education system that we currently do.”

“The gaming industry has created opportunities, especially in the employment area…” said Senator Leroy Comrie. “When I’ve attended events at resorts, I never fail to see no less than 10 people from my District that are working there. there's a lot for local opportunities and local employment.”

“Gambling is a hidden addiction, unlike alcohol and drugs, because those are visible things. Gambling addiction isn’t visible and leaving families impacted with domestic violence, unhoused children, suicide and so on,” said Alcee James, Director of Problem Gambling Resource Center. We had to change our approach because people didn’t want to answer questions… because people in our communities do not see gambling as a problem because it is a means of obtaining resources.``