Recognizing the importance of harness racing to our community, Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner (D-Round Lake) announced that legislation she authored to ensure Saratoga Harness Racing will continue to receive regional payments from Capital Region Off-Track Betting (A.6332) has passed the Assembly. The measure previously passed the state Senate, and will now be sent to the governor for final approval.

“This legislation will ensure the continued success of harness racing in Saratoga Springs,” said Assemblywoman Woerner. “The continued viability of harness racing will help ensure that local Washington and Saratoga County farms and businesses that support the equine industry continue to have opportunities to flourish.”

Saratoga Harness Racing, Inc. (SHRI) has been the regional track for the Capital OTB region since the inception of off-track betting. SHRI is reorganizing its corporate structure, which would under current law make it ineligible for regional payments. By adding SHRI to the exception that was previously provided for Tioga Downs, the harness track will continue to receive that funding.

“Harness racing is a vital component of our region’s economy,” said Assemblywoman Woerner. “It helps create jobs in the agriculture, leisure, and hospitality industries. That’s why I am fighting to ensure that harness racing in this region will continue to grow and succeed."