The Amusement and Music Owners Association of New York is teaming up with amusement equipment company Betson Enterprises to campaign in favour of legal online gaming in bars and clubs.

The initiative would see AMOA-NY operators become licensed providers of such services, Vending Times reports. The association noted the impact of such a model in the state of Illinois, where video gaming is creating a new source of revenue for operators and Betson is actively involved.

“This is important for our operators to remain competitive and embrace technology,” said Ken Goldberg of Emerson Amusement Co, who serves as AMOA-NY president. “Today, customers can legally participate in gaming right from their cell phones, iPads and other electronic devices. Our challenge is to stay relevant and continue to demonstrate to our customers that we offer value and attractive entertainment options in our locations.”

Goldberg claimed that in recent years government-run enterprises, such as off-track betting, have “attempted to invade our space and have failed miserably.” Public officials, he said, will now begin to look at other experienced operators as a source of new revenue.

“This should be a healthy business where there is an income opportunity for many, job creation and a reasonable revenue projection for government,” he added.