Published on: November 12, 2024, 06:10h.
Last updated on: November 12, 2024, 06:10h.
JC Seneca, the newly inaugurated president of the Seneca Nation, is clear about his goals in negotiating a new Class III gaming compact with the state of New York.
Under the current compact, the Seneca Nation can operate slot machines, table games, and sports betting at its three resorts. The previous compact expired on Dec. 9, 2023.
The tribe must share 25% of its slot revenue with the State of New York as per the revenue-sharing agreement.
Negotiations for a new compact have been ongoing as the revenue is held in escrow until an agreement is reached.
Seneca, who won a majority of the tribal votes, aims to strengthen the tribe’s financial independence and address social issues within the community.
His main focus is on renegotiating the compact.
‘Zero Percent Guy’
The Seneca tribe holds exclusive rights to casino gambling in certain regions in exchange for revenue sharing with the state.
Seneca’s goal is to eliminate the revenue-sharing agreement.
Seneca stated, “I’m a 0% guy. I don’t believe the state should receive any revenue from our nation.”
The tribe argues that New York did not uphold its end of the compact by allowing other forms of gaming in the region.
Seneca plans to consult with tribal officials before continuing negotiations with Governor Kathy Hochul.
Compact Casualty
In 2023, a gaming compact between the Seneca Nation and Governor Hochul’s administration fell through due to disagreements over a potential new casino location in Rochester.
Rochester officials were unaware of the proposed casino, leading to the breakdown of the agreement.
Former president Armstrong blamed Hochul for the failed compact.
Armstrong criticized Hochul for excluding Rochester officials from the discussions.
Hochul recused herself during the initial talks due to her husband’s ties to a competing organization but later resumed negotiations.