Maryland voters approve slots amendment

Maryland voters on Tuesday

approved the proposed state constitutional amendment authorizing the general

assembly to issue up to five video lottery licenses for the installation and

operation of up to 15,000 video lottery terminals at five locations for the

purpose of raising revenue for education. Support for the measure garnered 59

percent of the vote, with 99 percent of the precincts reporting.

Laurel Park is a potential site for 4,750 machines to be located in Anne

Arundel County. The Maryland Jockey Club will begin the process of applying for

a license once the licensing process has been finalized.

"Today is a good day for all Marylanders including our historic industry,"

said Tom Chuckas, Maryland Jockey Club president and chief operating officer.

"We are extremely pleased that, after significant effort by a number of people

inside and outside the horse racing industry, the voters have approved a measure

that will be of great benefit to an industry which employs thousands of people

in the state."

Pimlico Race Course, located in Baltimore, Maryland, is home to the Preakness

S. (G1), the middle jewel of horse racing's famed Triple Crown. The track opened

its doors in 1870 and is the second oldest track in the country. Laurel Park

first appeared on the racing scene in 1911.

"The passage of the referendum should help keep the Preakness and Maryland

horse industry strong for years to come," Chuckas said. "Our focus will now turn

to working diligently with state officials on licensing matters."

The state's racing industry was hit hard in the last decade when the

surrounding states of Delaware, West Virginia and Pennsylvania all began adding

slot machines.

"We now expect to be able to compete more effectively with the surrounding

states," added Chuckas. "Not only will schools be stronger, but more money will

be available for state programs and now Maryland's money will stay right here."