The New York Gaming Facility Location Board (NYGFLB) recently released answers to questions from downstate casino license bidders, revealing potential advantages for Genting and MGM Resorts International. The board acknowledged that while "speed to market" isn't the only consideration, rapid operational capability remains important.

Genting's Resorts World New York and MGM's Empire City Casino, currently operating as slots-only venues with racetracks, are widely considered frontrunners for two of the three available licenses. Both properties already rank among the highest-grossing regional casinos despite their current limitations.

Key Requirements for Licensees:

• Minimum capital investment of $500 million before operations begin
• One-time application fee of $1 million
• $500 million licensing fee for winners
• 25% tax rate on slot machine revenue
• 10% tax rate on table game revenue

Both operators have demonstrated their commitment to meeting these requirements:

• Genting pledged $5 billion to transform its Queens property
• MGM promised substantial renovations at Empire City
• Both projects would create thousands of construction jobs

The selection process timeline requires bids to be submitted by June 2025. While the NYGFLB will make recommendations, the New York State Gaming Commission (NYSGC) holds final authority on license awards. The state has not officially confirmed any advantages for existing VLT operators, but their established presence and operational capabilities align well with the state's efficiency goals.

For the remaining license, nine other bidders are competing, setting up an intense battle for the final permit in the lucrative New York City market.

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