Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - The Seneca Nation and New York State have agreed to a short-term casino compact extension. The two sides say this will allow for continued negotiations in efforts to reach a final deal.
"Today, I returned to Buffalo to meet with President Armstrong and memorialize an extension of the current gaming compact to ensure the State and Seneca Nation can continue working towards a long-term resolution," said New York Gov. Kathy Hochul in a statement on Friday. "With the signing of this agreement, there is important momentum for negotiations around the compact. I remain committed to working with President Armstrong and the Seneca Nation in finalizing an agreement that is fair to all parties, and I look forward to more conversations in the coming weeks and months as we continue to meet."
"Over the last several weeks, our discussions with New York State, including face-to-face meetings with Gov. Hochul, have centered, in part, on the potential extension of our current Compact, especially as the Dec. 9 expiration gets ever closer," said Seneca Nation of Indians President Rickey L. Armstrong, Sr. of the short-term deal.
Armstrong stresses this is a short-term agreement and will allow for negotiations to continue toward a more substantial arrangement moving forward.
"This short-term extension will provide additional time for our governments to complete Compact negotiations and to seek all necessary approvals in accordance with Seneca Nation, New York State, and federal law."
Under the extension, the Seneca's three gaming properties will continue to operate without interruption, alleviating any concerns about potential impacts for thousands of casino employees, which was a priority for the Nation.
Armstrong says Gov. Hochul has expressed a desire to reset the relationship between the governments. The short-term extension of our Compact is an important step, Armstrong stresses.
"The Seneca Nation remains committed to negotiating honestly and directly with New York State on a Compact that provides a fair and equitable economic and competitive environment for our gaming operations and the many people who depend on them.”
New York State Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt is pleased with the agreement, but cautions quick work on work toward a long term deal is imperative.
"I am pleased that a temporary extension of the current Gaming Compact between the Seneca Nation and New York State has been reached. However, the Governor must continue to work towards a long-term agreement for the benefit of Niagara Falls and Western New York. Any future agreement must prioritize the host communities and benefit not only New York State but the people of the Seneca Nation as well."