NJ’s Purses Need Slot Machines

Because of the ability of Pennsylvania’s racetracks to bring in slot machines, they also have the ability to pay out larger purses to their winners. This creates a problem for the horseracing industry in New Jersey, as slot machines are only legal in Atlantic City – not at their racetracks. If this trend continues, it could mean serious consequences for the state’s standard bred industry.

When the yearling auction this year had concluded, it was obvious that the days of New Jersey dominating the industry had come to a close. Many of the horses went to Pennsylvania breeders - and even though many of the top stallions are still in NJ, new ones are not coming in – they are going elsewhere. With the purses at the Pennsylvania tracks being subsidized by the slot machines, this trend is only going to get worse instead of better.

Experts are now saying that with NY and PA both allowing slot machines at their racetracks, NJ will end up being eclipsed by both states in the sport. In order to avoid this, NJ will need to legalize slot machines at their tracks as well. They should also try to attract more fans, as well as a different fan base, to the sport of harness racing.

Because of PA’s willingness to add slot machine revenue to the purses and awards that they are giving out, it is making it difficult for NJ to compete with their current circumstances. It is also more expensive to operate a horse farm in NJ than it is in PA and NY – which is another thing that makes PA so much more attractive. With Maryland as well as other nearby states also looking to possibly add slot machines, it will become imperative for NJ to ante up. The casinos have been against the slot machines at the track for fear that it would reduce their revenue, however, with slot machines coming to surrounding states it would behoove NJ to step up to the plate.


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