An extensive piece in yesterday's edition of the Asbury Park Press delved right into the State of New Jersey's current gaming landscape. The article touched on the racetracks' position, Atlantic City's position, and the reality that if the right moves aren't made soon, both could be gone
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According to the report, on Thursday, June 17 a group of state Senate and Assembly leaders called for a 'gaming summit' to develop a constitutional amendment aimed at ensuring the long-term viability of the state's horse racing and casinos industry.
"Right now, all the interests are at each other's throats while their respective industries are dying a slow death," state Sen. Ray Lesniak was quoted as saying. "They don't realize, or don't want to realize, they're killing each other. It's time for the Legislature and the governor to adopt a policy based on maximizing revenues from gaming and saving our dying tourist attractions."
The piece also cites Karyn Malinowski, director of Rutgers University's Equine Science Center -- who has studied the economics of horse racing -- as saying that she fears for the future of the sport, and the horse industry in New Jersey, if more isn't done.
"If harness racing left the Meadowlands, it would begin the demise of harness racing around the United States," She said.
(With files from Asbury Park Press)