N.J. Gov. Vetoes Racing Subsidies

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Photo: AP Photo

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie

By the Associated Press

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie has vetoed a move by the state Racing Commission to provide $15 million in state subsidies for horse racing purses.

The Republican governor's veto message issued July 1 says the commission's action contradicted his goal of making the industry financially self-sufficient.

The lease of Monmouth by a private operator—Morris Bailey is part owner of Resorts Casino in Atlantic City as well as a Thoroughbred owner and breeder—was ordered by Christie earlier this year.

The commission voted at its June 29 meeting to allocate $7.5 million for Thoroughbred purses at Monmouth Park and Atlantic City Race Course and $7.5 million for harness racing purses at the Meadowlands and Freehold Raceway.

Since 2004, the Atlantic City casino industry provided money to subsidize horse racing purses in exchange for the racing industry not seeking video lottery terminals at the tracks.

Christie ended the purse supplements last year. He also has moved to lease the state-operated Monmouth Park and Meadowlands to private operators.
 

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