Suffolk Cancels Wednesday
Suffolk Downs has cancelled Wednesday’s card so that horsemen and track employees can attend a hearing on legislation that could significantly affect racing in the state. In an all-or-nothing move, slots supporters have asked legislators to include language approving slot machines in a simulcasting bill that must be passed this year for the state’s racetracks to remain open, daring governor Mitt Romney to follow through on his threat to veto any legislation that expands gaming and kill off an entire industry.
The hearing is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. in the Gardner Auditorium at the State House.
“The future of thoroughbred racing in New England and specifically at Suffolk Downs is at stake,” said Mario DeStefano, New England HBPA president. “This legislation is so important to us that we really feel the need to be significantly represented at the State House for Wednesday’s hearing.” In addition to the horsemen planning to attend, the union representing mutuel tellers and other track employees will bus hundreds of workers to the hearing to show support.
Desperation? Calculation? I’m not entirely sure which is driving this longshot push for slots. I’ll be at the hearing tomorrow, though, trying to sort it out.
