THEODORE R. MCKELDIN, GOVERNOR                    349

No. 14

(Senate Joint Resolution 15)

Senate Joint Resolution requesting a complete and definitive study
of the State's policy on racing.

At the 1958 Session of the General Assembly, this body again has
Ibeen called upon to take action on a bill which would permit the
closing of Pimlico Race Track and eliminate this track as a site for
future racing in Maryland. Other bills on the subject of racing also
have either been introduced or discussed as possibilities for intro-
duction at this Session. In the aggregate they spell out very clearly
a conclusion which already has been crystal clear. It is that the
General Assembly and the remainder of the State have serious need
for a thorough, intensive, definitive and constructive study of the
present status of racing in Maryland and of its future possibilities
and potentialities.

Mention of only a few factors in this situation emphasize this con-
clusion. In the first place, it may well be that the State has per-
mitted an over-development of racing days. We have now licensed
mile-tracks for a total of 120 days, half-mile tracks for a total of
72 days, harness tracks for a total of 96 days and steeplechase rac-
ing for 2 days. These figures add to the amazing total of 290 days of
racing annually. If allowance is made for 52 Sundays and Good
Friday, only 22 week days are without racing during the year.

States surrounding Maryland are busily engaged in expanding
their own racing possibilities. The State of Virginia which has
never had racing is considering authorizing it. A new track is
planned at Charleston, West Virginia. The Ocean Downs Track on
the Eastern Shore is meeting very serious competition from Brandy-
wine. For years, of course, the tracks in other nearby states have
Ibeen active and serious competitors of Maryland.

In attempting to get away from active competition, Maryland has
begun to license racing from early February to late December.
Serious difficulties from weather have occurred twice within the past
few months.

Particular urgency is given to the whole question because of its
importance as a source for valuable State tax revenues. Questions
which need discussion and solution are such as the possible merging
of the mile tracks, the possible closing of marginal race tracks and
«ven perhaps the possible State operation of racing.

Without a doubt, the State of Maryland very badly needs a com-
plete study of the entire subject of racing; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the General Assembly of Maryland, That the Legis-
lative Council be requested to appoint a committee which will make
a complete, intensive, and definitive study of the subject of racing

EXPLANATION: Italics indicate new matter added to existing law.

[Brackets] indicate matter stricken from existing law.
CAPITALS indicate amendments to bill.
Strike out indicates matter stricken out of bill.