New York casino referendum gets first public discussion

A public discussion involving both sides of a referendum on amending the state constitution to allow Las Vegas-type casinos is set for New York City.

The Cuomo administration has pushing a "yes" vote for the Nov. 5 referendum.

On Monday, the nonpartisan Citizens Budget Commission will hold the midday forum in Manhattan. The panelists will include the head of the state Business Council and the two chairmen of gambling committees in the Legislature. Each of them support the expansion of casino gambling.

The opposition will be represented by David Blankenhorn of the Institute for American Values.

The New York Public Interest Research has proposed requiring public hearings held by the state for any constitutional amendments.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo wants voters to authorize seven casinos off Indian land.