New York – Lawsuit Challenges Casino Expansion Plan, Cuomo’s Changes

New York – A private citizen is suing Gov. Andrew Cuomo and legislative leaders to try to void expansion of casino gambling approved in June.

Robert Schulz of Washington County says the bill voted into law on the last day of the legislative session contained dozens of substantive, last-minute changes hidden from public view.

Cuomo says they were only technical changes. He issued a message of necessity that suspended the three days’ public review required by the constitution.

Schulz argues Cuomo and legislative leaders negotiated changes involving the payouts of gambling revenues and locations of facilities.

Schulz also says an anti-corruption provision that would have limited campaign contributions was dropped.

The Cuomo administration has disputed that, saying Cuomo’s proposal was dropped earlier in closed-door negotiations.

Cuomo had no comment Thursday.