Niagara Falls community organizations are rallying behind State Senator Rob Ortt’s push for the passage of Senate Bill 3618, which aims to secure a stable flow of casino revenue funding for local nonprofits and public institutions. Standing alongside Assemblyman Angelo Morinello and representatives from key Niagara Falls organizations, Ortt urged lawmakers to act on the bill to ensure continued financial support for crucial community services.
The proposed legislation would amend New York’s state finance law, allocating 80% of annual casino revenue to the City of Niagara Falls for economic development, public health, safety initiatives, and infrastructure improvements. The remaining 20% would be distributed among various organizations including Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center, Destination Niagara USA, the Niagara Falls City School District, the Niagara Falls Housing Authority, Mount St. Mary’s Neighborhood Health, and the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Commission.
If passed, the bill would provide:
-5.5% (up to $750,000) for Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center
-5.5% (up to $750,000) for Niagara Falls City School District
-7% (up to $1 million) for Destination Niagara USA
-1% ($200,000 minimum) for the Underground Railroad Heritage Commission
-$50,000 each for Mount St. Mary’s Neighborhood Health Center and the Niagara Falls Housing Authority
Ortt emphasized that these entities have played a vital role in strengthening the Niagara Falls community and should not be forced to negotiate their funding on an annual basis. He called on his colleagues in the state legislature to approve the bill, ensuring reliable financial support for education, healthcare, housing, and tourism efforts.
Morinello echoed Ortt’s sentiments, stressing that the funding previously provided under the state’s compact with the Seneca Nation was instrumental in sustaining these institutions. Without guaranteed revenue, many of these organizations face budget shortfalls that could disrupt essential services.
Leaders from the affected organizations underscored the importance of maintaining casino revenue funding. Mark Laurrie, Superintendent of the Niagara Falls City School District, highlighted how past funding has enabled significant investments in student facilities, while Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center President Joseph Ruffolo emphasized the economic and social impact of continued financial support for healthcare, education, and tourism.
John Percy, CEO of Destination Niagara, warned that the expiration of the previous funding agreement has already forced a 20% budget reduction, threatening the city’s tourism economy. Without a solution, Destination Niagara could face further cuts in 2026.
Senate Bill 3618 remains in committee, but supporters hope lawmakers will recognize the urgent need to pass the legislation. If approved, the bill would guarantee a consistent revenue stream for Niagara Falls organizations.
Ortt Pushes for Casino Revenue Legislation to Support Niagara Falls