Posted on: October 17, 2023, 12:22h.
Last updated on: October 16, 2023, 01:21h.
Las Vegas Sands seeks to construct a $4 billion integrated casino resort at the Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale. However, opponents argue that a Las Vegas-style casino would have negative social consequences for the Long Island community.
The “Say No to the Casino Civic Association” was formed to oppose Sands’ bid for one of New York’s downstate casino licenses. These licenses were initially authorized through a 10-year moratorium, allowing upstate properties to open without competition from New York City, Westchester, or Long Island.
The moratorium has expired, and Sands, along with other firms, is preparing their bids. The New York Gaming Location Facility Board will soon review proposals and award the licenses to the most suitable candidates.
With its large market capitalization, Sands is seen as a front-runner for one of the licenses. The company no longer operates any casinos in the US after selling its Venetian and Palazzo resorts last year.
Casino Harms
Las Vegas Sands derives much of its revenue from Macau, where it operates several integrated resorts. It is also the owner and manager of Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, considered a leader in the global integrated resort industry.
Sands plans to use some of the proceeds from its Venetian/Palazzo Las Vegas sale to develop an integrated resort on Long Island. However, opponents argue that this project will have a negative impact on the area.
The “Say No to the Casino Civic Association” will be hosting a town hall meeting on Wednesday, October 18, regarding the risks of teenage and child gambling. The event will take place at Garden City Middle School at 7 p.m. EST.
Les Bernal, the national director of “Stop Predatory Gambling,” will be among the speakers at the town hall. The organization aims to limit the expansion of gambling in the US and has raised concerns about the dangers associated with increased gaming.
Rob Minnick, a recent graduate of Georgetown University who struggled with gambling addiction, will also speak at the event.
The civic group told Casino.org, “Les and Rob will discuss the rising risks of youth gambling given the increasingly easy access to online gambling and the proliferation of brick-and-mortar casinos throughout the country.”
Sands Response
Las Vegas Sands executives are aware of the arguments made by anti-casino groups. The company emphasizes its commitment to corporate responsibility and its efforts to protect against problem gambling.
A statement from Sands reads, “Sands is dedicated to being a leader in corporate responsibility, anchored by our core tenants of serving people, planet, and communities. Our ESG leadership has led to inclusion on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices for World and North America and recognition as one of Fortune’s ‘Most Admired Companies’.”