The New York State Gaming Commission has named seven individuals to form an advisory board to assist in directing contributions from New York's Thoroughbred and Standardbred breeding funds to responsible racehorse aftercare organizations. The newly named board members are: Joseph Battaglia, Lois Engel, Bill Ketzer, Robin Malatino, Lisa Malloy, Liz O'Connell, and Rick Schosberg.
“These dedicated individuals recognize the importance of making sure racehorses have viable options after they leave the track,” said gaming commission chairman Brian O'Dwyer. “Their collective expertise will undoubtedly help the cause, and I thank each member for volunteering their time to promote responsible aftercare.”
New Yorkers may make contributions on personal and/or corporate state income tax returns to fund the operation of retired racehorse aftercare facilities via the New York State Thoroughbred Breeding and Development Fund and/or the Agriculture and New York State Horse Breeding Development Fund (for Standardbreds). In addition, any fines collected for violations of New York State law prohibiting the slaughter of racehorses and racehorse breeding stock (Section 382 of the Agriculture & Markets Law) are remitted to the respective funds to be spent solely for the purpose of the care of retired racehorses.
The funds will then be distributed to organizations, with consideration as to whether the group is an accredited horse retirement and rescue program.
To learn more about the commission's commitment to responsible horse breeding and aftercare, visit https://gaming.ny.gov/horse-breeding-and-aftercare.
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