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SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- With at least seven new casinos coming to New York State, those opposed to public gambling are taking a stand.

The state Coalition Against Gambling in New York held a news conference in Syracuse Thursday to address the problems associated with addictive gambling.

Earlier this year, lawmakers decided to legalize casinos and amend the state's constitution to bring in at least seven commercial casinos in the next few years.

The CAGNY Vice Chairperson agrees that the state needs revenue but believes it is a misinterpretation that the gambling industry brings prosperity and jobs. He says that more gambling outlets would not only raise taxes for the public, but would cost those with gambling addictions their wellbeing.

"It seems like easy money for the state, but it's actually being taken out of the health and the pocket books of everybody in the state. It's a false form of revenue enhancement," said Stephen Shafer, Vice Chairperson of CAGNY.

CAGNY officials also stress that gambling is often correlated with embezzlement, alcoholism, drug addictions and domestic and child abuse

The Turning Stone Casino and Resort in Verona declined to comment on the CAGNY conference.