Illinois Harness Horseman’s Association President Dave McCaffrey has issued a press statement in which he has said that it is imperative that Illinois legislators take time to pass an Advance Deposit Wagering bill so the Illinois Racing Board can continue to regulate horse racing in the state.

McCaffrey states that the IRB is funded by monies that come from ADW in the state.

“Without ADW funds, the IRB cannot sufficiently carry out its responsibilities,” McCaffery said. “Consequently, harness racing would see a 95 per cent reduction in racing dates, from 251 racing days in 2013 to just 13 racing days in 2014. Such dramatic cuts will effectively kill Illinois horse racing and the thousands of jobs it creates.”

The contents of McCaffery’s release appear below.

Illinois Legislators will reconvene in Springfield on Jan. 29 to hear Governor Pat Quinn’s State of the State address.

It is imperative that they take the time to pass legislation allowing Advance Deposit Wagering, which allows horse racing fans to bet on horse races online.

This is not a new law. ADW has been legal since 2009 but is due to sunset on Jan. 31. A percentage of ADW wagers fund the Illinois Racing Board (IRB), which regulates horse racing. Without ADW funds, the IRB cannot sufficiently carry out its responsibilities. Consequently, harness racing would see a 95 percent reduction in racing dates, from 251 racing days in 2013 to just 13 racing days in 2014. Such dramatic cuts will effectively kill Illinois horse racing and the thousands of jobs it creates.

Illinois horse racing employs more than 15,000 men and women. Because of horse racing in Illinois, not only do trainers, drivers, jockeys and caretakers have jobs but blacksmiths, veterinarians, breeders and racetrack workers such as IRB personnel, security, electricians, waiters, bartenders and tellers have job opportunities as well. These are real jobs for real people throughout Illinois.

It is reasonable to assume then that the Illinois General Assembly would promote and nurture an industry that provides revenue and jobs in a state that is hungry for just those things. Our racing season is scheduled to begin February 5. We urge all lawmakers to encourage leadership to call this critical piece of legislation on Jan. 29 and show their support with a ‘yes’ vote.