It has been reported that before the state of Maryland hands over millions of dollars to racetracks to cover day-to-day operating costs, Pimlico Race Course, Laurel Park and Rosecroft Raceway must have a
simulcasting deal in place.
According to a report by The Capital, if there is no deal in place the tracks simply won't be getting the money.
The situation is directly related to the multi-year scuffle between the previous owner of Rosecroft, Cloverleaf Enterprises, and Pimlico and Laurel operator the Maryland Jockey Club. Shortly before the running of the Kentucky Derby in 2009 the Maryland Racing Commission cut Rosecroft's feed of thoroughbred races after Cloverleaf refused to pay $5.9 million for the broadcast rights.
The report also explains that the Senate plan also reduces the aid which would go to the state's harness racing tracks. Rosecroft and Ocean Downs would be limited to a one-time grant of $1.2 million each from the state fund to bolster purses.
(With files from The Capital)