Four area state legislators and two key leaders of the Seneca Nation say they are working together to change state law so the Senecas can pay local communities their share of casino money. Usually, it goes to Albany and is then sent back. "There's a lot at stake here," said Senator George Maziarz, noting the many public entities which have come to rely upon gambling revenues. Because of the
fight over exclusivity provisions in the compact between state and nation, there haven't been any payments in two years.Without the claimed $214 million in late payments, nothing has gone to local governments, like Buffalo, Niagara Falls and, Salamanca.
Maziarz says legislation is being filed today to give the Senecas credit for the payment if they pay directly rather than through Albany.
The bill is sponsored by Maziarz, Olean Senator Cathy Young and Buffalo Assemblyman Mark Schroeder who have been working with Seneca Tribal Council Chairman Richard Nephew and presidential candidate Robert Odawi Porter.
"I can see pressure coming from different local governments," said Maziarz. "I can see this happening."
Governor Paterson has been refusing to split the local share off from the overall cash.
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