HARRY HUGHES, Governor

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premiums to be paid would be complex and problematic for
individuals who, for example, possess several horses, use a
different jockey for each race, and who would be subject to
potential liability for unidentified employees of a trainer or
trainers. Moreover, the cost and availability of workmen's
compensation insurance written by private carriers to fulfill the
requirements of this legislation appear uncertain. Testimony and
correspondence I have received on the bill indicated that these
additional requirements may create a disincentive for owners to
race their horses in Maryland.

Third, while reviewing background material on House Bill
1119, it is obvious that the accident coverage for jockeys
procured through the Jockey's Guild is inadequate. Both
proponents and opponents of this legislation agreed on this point
at the veto hearing. This is disturbing since jockeys perform
their jobs in an extremely hazardous environment where the
potential exists for severe and disabling injuries. Because of
this exposure, I firmly believe that enhanced protection must be
designed for jockeys. However, I am convinced that this
particular legislation does not represent an appropriate
resolution of the problem.

It was suggested in testimony that since New York, New
Jersey, and California require either by court order or
regulation that owners provide workmen's compensation coverage
for jockeys, Maryland, too, would escape significant adverse
effects. But it is important to note that in none of those three
states or in any other state is an owner required to cover
jockeys and the backstretch employees of a trainer. Clearly this
legislation would place Maryland at a competitive disadvantage in
attracting owners, trainers, and breeders from neighboring
states.

This Administration and the General Assembly have made, and
I am confident will continue to make, great strides in reviving
Maryland's racing industry. This legislation would reverse much
of the progress we have achieved to date.

For the above reasons, I have decided to veto House Bill
1119.

Sincerely,
Harry Hughes
Governor

House Bill No. 1119

AN ACT concerning

Workmen's Compensation - Covered Employees