New York State Gaming Commission Chair Brian O’Dwyer announced on Tuesday, Dec. 17 the members of an advisory board to assist directing contributions from New York’s Thoroughbred and Standardbred breeding funds to responsible racehorse aftercare organizations.

“These dedicated individuals recognize the importance of making sure racehorses have viable options after they leave the track,” said O’Dwyer. “Their collective expertise will undoubtedly help the cause, and I thank each member for volunteering their time to promote responsible aftercare.”

The Commission selected the following individuals to serve on the Aftercare Funding Advisory Committee:

• Joseph Battaglia, of Mechanicville
• Lois Engel, of Lattingtown
• Bill Ketzer, of Delmar
• Robin Malatino, of Saratoga Springs
• Lisa Malloy, of East Greenbush
• Liz O'Connell, of Troy
• Rick Schosberg, of Muttontown

New Yorkers may make contributions on personal and/or corporate state income tax returns to funding the operation of retired racehorse aftercare facilities via the New York State Thoroughbred Breeding and Development Fund and/or the Agriculture and New York State Horse Breeding Development Fund (for Standardbreds). In addition, any fines collected for violations of New York State law prohibiting the slaughter of racehorses and racehorse breeding stock (Section 382 of the Agriculture & Markets Law) are remitted to the respective funds to be spent solely for the purpose of the care of retired racehorses.

The funds will then distribute the funds to organizations, with consideration as to whether the group is an accredited horse retirement and rescue program.

(New York State Gaming Commission)