WILLIAM DONALD SCHAEFER, Governor

J.R. 2

circuit; providing for the membership of the Task Force; requesting the Governor to
seek the participation of representatives of the Governor of the Commonwealth of
Virginia; and generally relating to the creation of a Task Force to study and
evaluate a regional horse racing circuit.

WHEREAS, The horse racing industry in Maryland has suffered over recent years
from the national shortage of quality racehorses; and

WHEREAS, The Maryland racing industry significantly contributes to the economy
of this State; and

WHEREAS, The Commonwealth of Virginia has passed legislation to authorize
pari-mutuel wagering at on-track and off-track facilities, but has yet to construct a racing
facility; and

WHEREAS, Cooperation between Maryland and Virginia could lead to a better
utilization of the existing supply of quality racehorses, making the Maryland racing
industry stronger while supporting the creation of a vibrant racing industry in Virginia;
and                                                                                                             

WHEREAS, Benefits would accrue to economies of each state; now, therefore, be

it

RESOLVED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF MARYLAND, That the
Governor is requested to establish a Task Force to Study the Development of a Regional
Horse Racing Circuit for Maryland and Virginia; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the Task Force be composed of:

(1)     one member of the Senate of Maryland, appointed by the President of the
Senate, and one member of the House of Delegates, appointed by the Speaker of the
House;

(2)     two representatives of management at Maryland racetracks;

(3)     one representative of the breeders' association for the thoroughbred industry,
and one representative of the breeders' association for the harness industry;

(4)     one representative of the horsemen's association representing a majority of
the horsemen at the thoroughbred tracks in the State, and one representative of the
horsemen's association representing a majority of the horsemen at the harness tracks in
the State;

(5)     one representative of the Maryland Racing Commission;

(6)     one representative of the Department of Economic and Employment
Development; and

(7)     10 representatives of the Commonwealth of Virginia as selected by the
Governor of Virginia; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the Task Force is charged with:

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