Maryland General Assembly to ponder legislative changes for its horse racing industry
Maryland’s horse racing industry has been in turmoil for a long time now. Thoroughbred horse racing in the state went through one of its worst times last year, when the Preakness Stakes was facing closure, with no sign of negotiations between the parties
involved. At the last minute though, an agreement was reached which the state also approved.
However, that did not bring an end to the problems the Maryland horse racing industry has been facing. A critical issue for the track owners is the expansion of gambling by adding slots to the racetracks. In their minds and the opinion of those who support
this proposition, slot machines would help to attract crowds and improve dwindling attendances at the race tracks. This would indirectly boost the spectatorship of horse races and contribute towards reviving the horse racing industry.
The state of Maryland has given permission to open up five slot parlours. Despite that fact, currently only two locations have started to operate the slot machines at the race tracks. Hollywood Casino in Perryville, which is owned by the Penn National Gaming
Inc., was the first of the two. The casino started its operations in September of last year. While the second one - the Ocean Downs Casino - opened recently on the fourth of January.
Other than Hollywood Casino and Ocean Downs, there are other racetracks that are interested in adding slot machines. Among them are Laurel Park and Rosecroft Raceway. Laurel Park, which is owned by the Maryland Jockey Club, is looking to build a casino
near the Arundel Mills Mall. Whereas talks to purchase the almost bankrupt Rosecroft are still going on, and the addition of slot machines is critical to the purchase decision.
While there is a push for adding slot machines to the tracks, the proposal has also faced opposition from among lawmakers. The Maryland General Assembly is scheduled to be convened on 12
January. A number of key issues concerning the horse racing industry will be up for discussion, including the expansion of gambling and aid for horse racing.
Some of the features in the agreement between the Maryland Jockey Club and the horsemen and breeders will also come under discussion. Both parties have decided to channel the revenue earned from the slot machines into racing operations. Previously, it was
being used for improvements in capital. The agreement also indicates that the Bowie Training Centre might have to be shut down. The agreement between the parties was reached in order to sustain a full racing schedule this year, but this will only be possible
if the state of Maryland approves it.
The general counsel of the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (MTHA), Alan Foreman made the following comments regarding a legislative strategy for the horse racing industry of Maryland: “The discussion starts next week. The general consensus of
the agreement for 2011 racing dates is a short-term solution to keep racing alive, but it did not address the long-term issues. Maryland is facing major economic problems, and where racing will fit in (on the agenda) I don’t think anyone knows at this point.
Racing will, however, require significant attention. The governor and his administration recognise that a lot of work needs to be done, and they are committed to working with us.”
Foreman also speculated that it was unlikely that Maryland’s horse racing industry would see any drastic changes this year. However, he is hopeful that a long term strategy would be devised by 2012.
The Maryland General Assembly will end its session on 11 April.
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