This past November, New Jersey’s racing industry suffered a major setback, as the Casino Expansion Referendum was defeated by the voters. It was apparent that New Jersey’s surrounding states were funding the campaign against the cause. Since the defeat, the SBOANJ board members have been diligently working on an alternative plan that would generate another source of revenue for the racing industry to survive.
The idea of Historic Racing was brought to their attention. Most recently, the state of Kentucky has successfully implemented Historic Racing machines into both Thoroughbred and Standardbred racetracks.
A ‘historic racing’ bill was introduced to the Senate and General Assembly of the State of New Jersey on January 9, 2017. The bill is being sponsored by Senators Richard J. Codey and Christopher ‘Kip’ Bateman. It has also gained co-sponsorship from Senator Oroho. The bill will permit wagering at racetracks and off track wagering facilities in the State of New Jersey on previously recorded live Thoroughbred or Standardbred horse races that do not identify the actual race. To see the details of the bill go to ‘State of New Jersey 217th Legislature Senate # 2886.’
After the bill was introduced to the Senate and General Assembly, a copy was sent to the SBOANJ for review. Currently they are evaluating the bill and its content. In the meantime, they will continue to work on an alternative plan to help generate revenue that New Jersey racetracks need to compete with neighboring states that have casino revenue to support their purse accounts.
“We continue to ask for your help and cooperation during these trying times. Also, continue to show your support to both the Meadowlands and Freehold racetracks,” said SBOANJ President Mark Ford.
Click here to view the bill.
(SBOANJ)