Maryland Vote on Slots

On Nov. 4, Maryland residents will be voting on the referendum to add slot machines to their local racetracks.

There are two schools of thought on this issue. Those who fear that the Maryland racing industry is dying a slow death because horses are racing in nearby Pennsylvania and New Jersey where slot machines make for larger purses, and are therefore in favor of adding slot machines to the tracks, and those opposed to gambling in any shape or form in their "backyard."

I bring up the issue because there actually is a compromise that I had hoped would make this a less controversial subject. When I was in Washington last Spring with the Fans of Barbaro and the anti-slaughter groups, I met with two very savvy Maryland FOBs who had an ingenious plan for making everyone happy.

Their idea was to tie the issue of slot machines to horse retirement facilities.In other words, they were lobbying long and hard for the provision that would require race tracks that installed slot machines to set aside x% of their revenue to fund horse retirement facilities in the state. They felt that they were instrumental enough within the racing community to deliver the votes, one way or the other, depending on whether or not the tracks would agree to this addendum.

I told you it was brilliant, but I fear that it has not come to pass. Which is why I would urge those Maryland residents to vote NO on slots, unless there is a provision to use some of the revenue to care for retired horses in the state.

Those who fear the demise of the racing industry without the slots, should consider that without added funds to care for those already "in the system," the potential exists for there to be even more "retired" horses to care for if some of the local tracks shut down.

Pleas let me know if I am mistaken about this bill, especially if it does provide for care of retired horses. If it does, vote YES and make sure you get all your friends to do likewise.