Maryland's Horses Want Subsidies

Maryland’s racing industry is in need of a little assistance, and they are looking to the state to give it to them. They are asking for a $30 million subsidy for their race purses for next year. Their request comes just in time for the next legislative session.

Maryland Racing Commission Chairman John Franzone says that without subsidies from the state, the tracks will be looking at cutting their racing schedule down from where it is now. With the state considering the legalization of slot machines right now, it is the perfect time for the tracks to let them know why they are needed.

They say that even if the slot machines are approved, they won’t come in time to help the tracks immediately, so they are still going to need the subsidy from the state. The slot machines at tracks would do a lot to help them in the future, so they are in full agreement that the slot machines is the best thing for them – they just haven’t moved fast enough on them.

Maryland Jockey Club President Chris Dragone, who replaced Lou Raffetto after he was let go by Magna Entertainment Corp, appeared with Franzone at the Maryland Racing Commission’s monthly meeting. Dragone has already received a lot of support from the industry, even though Raffetto was well liked. Franzone chastised Magna, saying that they had possibly ruined their chances for getting slot machines in the state because of the overturn of personnel.

Everyone is agreed that the tracks will not survive if they continue on the way they have. Slot machines and subsidies are needed if they are to get through this.


 

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