Requires harness racetrack locations awarded a gaming facility license maintain live racing activity.
Impact
The implementation of S08358 is expected to have a significant impact on state laws concerning the gaming and racing industries. By mandating that licensed harness racetracks maintain live racing activities, the bill is positioned to safeguard the tradition of live racing against the pressures of modernization and the increasing emphasis on gaming. This could foster a more vibrant racing culture in New York and contribute positively towards local economies reliant on these venues for tourism and employment.
Summary
Bill S08358 proposes amendments to the racing, pari-mutuel wagering and breeding law that would require harness racetracks awarded a gaming facility license to maintain live racing activities. Specifically, the bill adds a new stipulation that these locations must not only operate as gaming facilities but also actively hold racing events within the framework established by existing laws. This change aims to ensure that live racing remains a vital aspect of operations at licensed harness racetracks, thereby enhancing the profile and function of these venues in the state's racing industry.
Contention
Despite its intentions, S08358 may face pushback from stakeholders within the gaming community who argue that the requirement for live racing could stifle innovation and diminish profitability at facilities that may prefer a sole focus on gaming activities. Critics might contend that this legislative measure could constrain business models for racetracks competing in an evolving entertainment landscape. Thus, the bill could spark debates over the future viability of live racing amid shifting consumer interests and economic pressures.
Relates to payments in support of racing; sets up a payment applicants must pay if they are issued a gaming facility license and they do not possess either a pari-mutuel wagering license or franchise award.
Relates to horsemen's health, welfare, pension and administrative benefits for harness racing licensees in the absence of contractual obligations; requires that in the absence of a contract between the licensed harness racing corporation or association and the representative horsemen's organization, the state gaming commission shall as a condition of racing require an association or corporation to withhold and pay eight percent of all unpaid and existing monies and to pay such sum to the horsemen's organization quarterly at facilities located in Westchester and Nassau county.
Relates to horsemen's health, welfare, pension and administrative benefits for harness racing licensees in the absence of contractual obligations; requires that in the absence of a contract between the licensed harness racing corporation or association and the representative horsemen's organization, the state gaming commission shall as a condition of racing require an association or corporation to withhold and pay eight percent of all unpaid and existing monies and to pay such sum to the horsemen's organization quarterly at facilities located in Westchester and Nassau county.
Establishes the water-based fire protection licensure act, setting forth licensure requirements for contractors engaged in the business of the layout, installing, repairing, inspecting, testing, or maintaining of water-based fire protection systems and components.
Establishes the water-based fire protection licensure act, setting forth licensure requirements for contractors engaged in the business of the layout, installing, repairing, inspecting, testing, or maintaining of water-based fire protection systems and components.