Gaming compact talks between Seneca Nation, NY State may resume

Negotiations between New York State and the Seneca Nation over a new gaming compact may finally resume after a long deadlock, following a formal apology from Governor Kathy Hochul.

The renewed momentum follows a public apology from Hochul to the Seneca Nation for historic abuses at the former Thomas Indian School, WGRZ reported. Both Hochul and Seneca Nation President J.C. Seneca described the moment as a step toward rebuilding trust—something that could help restart compact negotiations.

"We agreed that we would continue the conversation about the casino pact after I had this opportunity to go have a very positive experience with them and to continue building trust," Hochul said. "I'm looking forward to the conversations about the casinos. It's part of my agenda for the upcoming year."

The proposed compact, first announced in June 2023, included plans for a new Seneca-owned casino in the Rochester area. The plan quickly unraveled after members of the Rochester delegation in the state legislature—who were not consulted—voiced strong opposition. The backlash led to the collapse of the framework, and talks have remained at an impasse ever since.

Although the existing gaming compact expired in December 2023, both sides agreed to temporarily extend its terms while negotiations continued. Still, no new deal has been reached.

Seneca, elected in 2024, has long argued that the Seneca Nation should not have to share casino revenue with the state. Earlier this year, Seneca leaders confirmed that talks had completely stalled.

No timeline has been provided for when talks will resume, although Seneca also expressed optimism about renewing the discussion efforts.

"What happened in the past, we can't change," Seneca said. "We had an agreement in terms, a term sheet that failed to move forward because of a certain dynamics that were going on at the time, but I always believe things happen for a reason."

Meanwhile, State Senator George Borrello urged Hochul to make the negotiations a priority.

"I hope that for the sake of the Seneca Nation and also for the many host communities which I represent, that this is going to move forward expeditiously with a recognition of the fact that the current compact is a completely unfair deal for the Seneca Nation and needs to be changed," Borrello said.