The New York State Gaming Commission has communicated that Governor Andrew Cuomo’s executive order that, in part, calls for the stoppage of live horse racing in the state, has been extended until at least May 15, 2020.
Live horse racing in New York State has not been deemed an ‘essential service,’ and therefore any race date up until at least May 15 will not be taking place.
Although live racing in New York State will not be taking place until at least May 15, animal care operations – which include equine barn or facility maintenance, equine turnout and exercise, stall cleaning and enclosure repair, and farrier and veterinary care – do qualify as essential business.
Whether a racetrack remains open for training and barns remain open for stabling in New York State is a determination to be made by each racetrack and its horsemen’s organization.
The extension of the racing ban was communicated via letter on Friday, April 19. To read a copy of the letter, click here.
(With files from the New York State Gaming Commission)