11 Important Years in the New York Gambling Legislation Timeline

Although New York offers every form of entertainment you can think of, the legislation has been strict when it comes to gambling. Which are the most important years in New York’s gambling laws timeline?

1821
Gambling is banned in the state of New York for the first time.
1864
Even lotteries and raffles are prohibited in the state.
1894
As in many other North-American states, all forms of gambling are banned in New York. There was a widespread anti-gambling movement going on in the country.
1939
Pari-mutuel betting, a system of gambling that is based on a money pool, is legalized.
1957
Bingo games are legalized in the state for charitable purposes.
1966
An intrastate gambling form, known as the New York State Lottery, is created and legalized.
1973
In order to regulate and oversee the horseracing tracks in New York, an organization called the State Racing and Wagering Board is formed.
1993
A bill passes to allow Native American casinos in the state of New York, with the very first one opening right in the same year. Following the legislation, Native American-administered casinos grew rapidly in number across the state.
2011
In a dark twist, federal law determines that all online gambling sites operated from New York must be banned and closed. From that point forward, new ones are prevented from opening.
2013
Commercial casinos endorsed by the state are legalized in an effort to develop the area of Upstate New York.
2019
Procedures are under way to allow sports betting at the state’s commercial casinos. New sports betting options for the future are also being discussed.
A new era of gambling in New York may or may not be inaugurated this year.