New York State Approval Process
As of June 1, 2025, Las Vegas Sands has announced it is not pursuing a casino license and is seeking a successor -
a mega casino at the Nassau Coliseum was never a "done deal"
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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.
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The second step will be for Las Vegas Sands to submit a petition to the Town of Hempstead for rezoning approval.
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The successor to Las Vegas Sands then needs to file an application by June 27, 2025
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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!​
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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.
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There are at least 8 other casino operators competing for one of the three downstate casino licenses at locations such as Citifield, Times Square, Coney Island, Aqueduct and Yonkers.
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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