NY Harness Tracks To Allow Cell Phones In Paddocks

The New York State Racing and Wagering Board on Wednesday adopted a new law that will allow cell-phone use in paddocks at harness racetracks. Cell phones have been allowed in Thoroughbred paddocks in New York.
The new rule will take effect in 45 days and will be implemented on a one-year trial basis.
The harness tracks will have to set aside designated areas to use cell phones and also post signs that tell people where those areas are.
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Pena Drops Meadowlands Lawsuit

According to John Brennan on NorthJersey.com, Lou Pena’s lawsuit against the Meadowlands was dismissed in U.S. District Court earlier today.
Pena, who had sued to try to eliminate the ban on his racing at the Meadowlands that has been imposed on him by new track operator Jeff Gural, filed a “notice of voluntary dismissal without prejudice” on Wednesday.
It’s not immediately clear if Pena decided he couldn’t win the case, or if he and Gural reached some sort of truce. Full Article

New Jersey Wants Prosecution Not Drug Testing

Prosecution, not drug testing, is the way to ensure integrity in harness racing, Jeff Gural told the sold-out crowd at the Standardbred Breeders of Ontario Association awards banquet in Toronto on Saturday (Jan. 21).
“Some individuals will always be one step ahead of any testing procedures,” he said,” but once a couple of people are taken away in handcuffs, that will be a big deterrent.”
Gural emphasized that he’s prepared to use his newly-forged relationship with New Jersey Governor Chris Christie’s office to make prosecution for illegal drug use in racing a stern reality. Full Article

NJ Governor Signs Law To Legalize Sports Betting

On Tuesday, January 17, Governor Chris Christie signed legislation which will pave the way for legalized sports wagering in New Jersey. In order to make expanded gaming a reality in NJ, the state will have to challenge the federal ban which only allows sports gambling in Nevada, Delaware, Oregon and Montana.
“New Jersey voters made it clear they want sports betting, and this law will handle it in a responsible and professional manner,” the article has quoted state Assemblyman Ralph Caputo as saying. “It does the right thing for New Jersey and will ensure our racetracks and casinos remain competitive.”
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