New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie last week signed into law two bipartisan bills to help boost the state’s struggling horse-racing industry.
The overall horse industry contributes $1.1 billion per year to New Jersey’s economy, Christie’s office said. Of the 42,500 horses in the state, about 30%, or 12,500, participate in racing or breeding activities.
There are three horse racing tracks in the state.
New and expanded casino developments in neighboring states have put a dent in New Jersey’s horse racing industry.
The racetracks would like to include slot machines at their facilities in order to attract more visitors, but lobbying by Atlantic City casinos has blocked those plans.
The new bills would decrease the annual minimum required number of races at the Meadowlands Racetrack to 75 from 141, upon written consent from the Standardbred Breeders and Owners Association of New Jersey.
The minimum number of races per year at Freehold Raceway will also decrease to 75 from 168.
“The horsemen have the inside track as far as knowing what racing needs to be successful in New Jersey,” Assemblywoman Caroline Casagrande, R-Monmouth, said in a statement.
“Establishing the minimum number of dates at the Meadowlands and Freehold Raceway is a baseline, but we anticipate the track at Freehold Raceway will operate over 100 days this year,” according to Casangrande. “This law helps put control over racing into the hands of New Jersey’s horse industry, where it rightfully belongs.”
The second initiative allows gamblers to place wagers in advance at New Jersey racetracks or casinos regardless of whether the race is broadcast simultaneously at a particular facility, as long as it is simulcast at other facilities in the state.
Both bills passed the Legislature unanimously.
