Relates to authorizing participation in an interstate compact that allows each state to coordinate racing and wagering rules and programs with other states

BILL NUMBER:S3022A

Title of bill

An act to amend the racing, pari-mutuel wagering and breeding law, in relation to authorizing participation in an interstate compact that allows each state to coordinate racing and wagering rules and programs with other states

Purpose

This bill allows New York State to enter the Interstate Racing and Wagering Compact (the Compact).

Summary of provisions

Section 1 of the bill amends the Racing, Pari-Mutuel Wagering and Breeding (Racing) Law by adding Article XII, §§ 1201 to 1214, to authorize New York State to participate in an interstate compact that provides for racing states to act cooperatively to improve their regulation of state pari-mutuel racing and wagering.

Section 2 of the bill provides for the effective date.

Existing law

The Racing Law grants the Racing and Wagering Board jurisdiction to regulate all parimutuel horse racing, licensing, simulcast and wagering activities in the State, consistent with the interests of the public and racing. It does not authorize New York State to participate in the the Compact.

Legislative history

This is a new proposal.

Statement in support

Without the Compact, each member state separately adopts racing rules and programs, yet participants who race in several states need uniformity and a lone state, for fear of losing handle, cannot always act (e.g., regulate off-shore sites) alone. The methods of action under the Compact include rule making and the adoption of programs. Each racing commission, within the limits of its authority under other statutes, can use the compact to develop and propose common rules and programs.

The Racing and Wagering Board, by its agent (the Chairperson or designee), will evaluate the best interests of racing in New York with our horsemen and racetracks, and meet with other state racing commissions and industry stakeholders in search of common solutions. If a new rule or program is proposed by member states, it takes effect in only the states that vote for it, and each state enforces them within its state. The compact provides a mechanism for states to work together.

The Compact permits member states to create uniform practices, programs, and rules and to act cooperatively. By joining the Compact, New York can promote New York State racing by simplifying racing and enhancing its integrity to attract more horses, fans, core bettors, and wagering.

Budget implications

None.

Effective date

This bill shall only take effect with respect to any compacting state which has enacted an interstate compact entitled "interstate racing and wagering compact" and having an identical effect to that added by section one of this act upon the enactment into law by at least six eligible state, but if such states have already enacted such legislation, this act shall take effect immediately.