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1. The next step in the process is the SEQRA study will address the many negative impacts on our environment - traffic, air and noise pollution, impact on water supply, waste disposal, public safety considerations including increased risk of DWI fatalities.

2. The second step will be for Las Vegas Sands to submit a petition to the Town of Hempstead for rezoning approval.

3. Las Vegas Sands then needs to file an application by the end of June 2025

4. After the casino applicants file their applications, a local Community Advisory Committee (CAC) will be appointed by five elected officials - Governor Kathy Hochul, County Executive Bruce Blakeman, Town of Hempstead Supervisor Donald Clavin, State Senator Bynoe and Assembly Member Edward Ra.  If 2 of the 5 members vote against the casino, the applicant does not move forward!​

5. Only those casino applicants that have a) obtain approval of their local CAC and b) have zoning approval will be evaluated for a casino license by the NYS Gaming Facility Location Board.

6. There are at least 10 other casino operators competing for one of the three downstate casino licenses at locations such as Citifield, Times Square, Coney Island, Hudson Yards, Aqueduct and Yonkers.

7. The three companies selected by the Location Board are subject to final approval by the NYS Gaming Commission.

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The casino selection process has been repeatedly delayed.

More information on the approval process can be found at nycasinos.ny.gov