Passage of the purse supplement again demonstrates the growing power of thoroughbred horsemen to control the legislative agenda for New Jersey racing. The supplement, a useful tool in the battle to keep New Jersey thoroughbred racing competitive in the Mid-Atlantic region, offers only temporary relief.
Government subsidies become as addictive as drugs.
Just look at all the groups and special interests wallowing at the public trough. After five years of supplements, the Maryland Legislature cut off supports this year. The last of the supplemental money runs out at the end of June, leaving that state's horsemen facing cold-turkey withdrawl. A similar fate could befall New Jersey horsemen in the future without enhanced, sustainable revenue streams. The long-term viability of racing in the New Jersey depends not on hand outs from the state treasury, but on expansion of the franchise to better serve the consumer.