Legislative Update May 4, 2011 Posted On: May 07, 2011 | Posted By: Glen
Legislative Update – May 4, 2011
Since the beginning of this session in January, ITHA has concentrated on educating the several newly elected legislators regarding the severe hardships facing the horse racing industry. This effort continues. In addition, we regularly contact the legislative leadership and staff in both chambers.
On Wednesday, May 4, 2011, Mike Campbell (ITHA), Lanny Brooks IL/HBPA, and Jackie King (ITBOF) were in Springfield to join their lobbyists at the weekly horse racing industry strategy meeting. Following this meeting, everyone met with key legislators and staff. From these discussions, all indications are that a proposed amendment will be released for review within the next two weeks. Please know that this amendment will be scrutinized very carefully to ensure that no drastic or harmful changes to our original agreement are included.
The Senate was not in session for the last two weeks. When they returned on Tuesday, they introduced their state budget for consideration. The House also has a budget proposal. Many believe legislative leaders are attempting to finalize the state’s budget before turning their attention to revenue streams. If legislative action does proceed in this manner, then we can anticipate legislative action taking place on horse racing after the budget has been determined.
On another front, the Senate’s initial version of the budget for the Illinois Department of Agriculture completely eliminates funding for the Illinois Thoroughbred Breeders Fund. This issue is now a major part of our legislative focus. We are working with others involved in the Department’s budget woes and will keep you informed on these developments.
