The Pennsylvania Harness Horsemen’s Association has issued an alert urging its members to contact their state representatives immediately
due to reported Republican caucus discussions about cutting or eliminating the state’s racing fund.
The discussions stem from Pennsylvania’s lengthening state budget impasse. Approximately two weeks into the new fiscal year, the state is still without a budget agreement, and every option is on the table as lawmakers attempt to resolve a multi-billion dollar deficit.
The state’s racing fund is a product of Act 71, the slot machine legislation designed to ease Pennsylvania’s competitive disadvantage with neighboring states that already had racinos. Act 71 succeeded in not only leveling the playing field, but also cultivated what many believe is the country’s best harness racing product while simultaneously creating jobs and stimulating investment in a bad economy.
“If the racing fund is cut or eliminated altogether, it will create disastrous long-term results for dubious short-term benefits,” said Earl Beal Jr., president of the Pennsylvania Harness Horsemen’s Association. “It would cause Pennsylvania to immediately become non-competitive with neighboring states, driving investment elsewhere, and leading to the collapse of Pennsylvania racing, its infrastructure and related businesses.”
To read the member alert, and for more information on how to reach out to Pennsylvania’s state government, visit www.pahha.com or click here.
About the Pennsylvania Harness Horsemen’s Association
Founded in 1967, the Pennsylvania Harness Horsemen’s Association (PHHA) is a trade group that promotes the development of harness racing in Pennsylvania. The organization represents horsemen at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs and Harrah’s Chester Casino & Racetrack. Its mission is to provide a stable foundation for horsemen by encouraging competitive racing that increases fan participation and enhances the reputation of Pennsylvania harness racing on the national scene. Headquartered in suburban Harrisburg, the PHHA maintains branch offices at the tracks it represents.
(PHHA)