The Standardbred Breeders & Owners Association of New Jersey today launched two commercials urging voters to ‘Vote Yes’ for the public ballot question that would allow casino gaming outside of Atlantic City.

“The farmers, breeders, and members of SBOANJ need to convince the public that new casino revenue in New Jersey will help protect the equine industry and our overall quality of life,” said SBOANJ President Mark Ford. “We cannot sit back and let outside casino interests spread misinformation.”

If the ballot question passes, the New Jersey Legislature could authorize two new casinos to be built in northern New Jersey. A percentage of the state tax revenue collected from the new casinos would be dedicated to supporting the horse racing industry.

The first spot to air emphasizes that farms, open space, and thousands of jobs could be lost unless voters pass the ballot question. The second spot educates voters on the revenue that New York and Pennsylvania collect from casino patrons, thousands of which reside in northern New Jersey.

“Although the polls show that passage of the ballot question is unlikely, the horsemen believe we still have to do everything we can to get our story out to the public,” said TrotPAC President Anthony Perretti. “We need financial support from various places to protect our industry.”

The spots begin airing on Friday, October 28th on various cable networks and will continue through November 8th. To view the commercials, visit www.trotpac.org or request a copy through the SBOANJ.

(SBOANJ)