Assemblyman Jeff Gallahan (R,C-Manchester) voiced concern that the Seneca Nation’s plan to establish a gaming facility in the Rochester-Finger Lakes region is on a trajectory to negatively impact the region. While the idea of introducing a new Seneca gaming site in New York may appear to be a straightforward approach to increasing state revenue, it is unwise to trust the Seneca Nation of Indians to uphold any agreement with the state, considering their track record of non-compliance. For that reason, Gallahan is calling on Gov. Hochul to reject this proposed plan with a letter signed by Minority members in the Rochester-Finger Lakes region.

“The primary impact of a new gaming site would be felt by local municipalities, yet they are currently excluded from participating in the compact discussions. It is imperative there are no secretive negotiations that exclude the very communities that would be directly affected by this compact. The establishment of a tribal-owned gaming site in the Rochester area would present various challenges for the local communities. It is crucial to address these issues and ensure any proposal or compact agreement for a casino in the Rochester area remains transparent and open to the community. This openness is especially important for our municipal officials, as they will bear the day-to-day impacts of this decision,” said Gallahan.