Seneca Nation of Indians transfers casino exclusivity funds to New York State

CATTARAUGUS/ALLEGANY TERRITORIES, New York -- (PRESS RELEASE) -- The Seneca Nation of Indians today transferred 349.6 million dollars to New York State in a special ceremony including Seneca Nation President Barry E. Snyder, Sr. and New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo. Held at the Seneca Niagara Events Center, Seneca Niagara Casino and Hotel, Niagara Falls, NY, the Seneca's disbursement included $139,860,000 for the host municipalities and $209,790,000 to the state of New York to resolve the Seneca's concerns about the status of the terms of its original gaming compact with the state. The host cities include Niagara Falls, Buffalo and Salamanca, New York.

"We have been very successful building a billion dollar gaming business right here in Western New York, with our Seneca Niagara, Seneca Allegany and Seneca Buffalo Creek facilities," said Seneca Nation President Barry Snyder, Sr. "In the process, we have created thousands of jobs for Senecas and non-Senecas alike, and have become an important business partner for several local companies, thereby supporting thousands of additional jobs in the local economy."

"By working together and both sides coming to the table in the spirit of collaboration and respect, the State and Seneca Nation of Indians were able to end years of dispute and reach an agreement that is a major victory for all parties involved," Governor Cuomo said.

"Today we are delivering a much needed payment to the City of Niagara Falls, restoring funding that will be a critical help to the local community. This agreement marks the beginning of a new chapter between the Seneca Nation of Indians, the City of Niagara Falls, and New York State, built on trust and mutual respect and I thank President Snyder for his partnership."

In 2002, the Seneca Nation signed a Gaming Compact with the State of New York, under the federal Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. That historic compact required the Nation and the State to cooperate in the establishment of three "class III gaming" casino facilities.

"For fifty years I have been involved in helping lead this great Nation. As a Nation we have overcome great adversity and have rejoiced with much success. We have conflicts and debates but in the end we have to work together to move our future forward as one," said Snyder.