Delegates discuss letter of support for historical horse-racing proposal tied to Long Shots OTB

Delegation members discussed a draft letter of support for proposed legislation that would allow historical horse-racing at off-track betting (OTB) facilities, including Long Shots in Frederick County, but took no formal vote at the Feb. 7 meeting.

Delegate Delia Ferrer, who introduced the topic, described the proposal as a sports-wagering bill that "would actually impact 1 of 4 licenses in the state, which Frederick County has 1 of them, at Long Shots, which is in District 3." She said the draft letter would express the delegation's general support for the measure to benefit Frederick County.

Ferrer explained what historical horse racing entails: "Historical horse racing is essentially there are thousands, and I mean, literally thousands and thousands and thousands of hill horse races that have happened, internationally over the years... And so what you do is the individual is given a set of data facts... then they are able to then make an educated bet... and then they actually show the actual historical horse race, that they're referencing in that... bet." She said proponents view it as a game in which bettors can use statistical data to make an educated choice.

Ferrer also cited revenue examples from other states in describing the industry. "It has seen a profit margin of about $9,800,000,000,000 [as stated at the meeting], and it has brought down about a hundred and 14, million, dollars into the state, through those efforts," she said on the record (figures as stated by the speaker). Delegates noted those figures as context for the proposal but did not adopt them as committee findings.

Delegates asked clarifying questions. Delegate Boucher asked for definitions and whether Maryland currently offers historical horse racing; Ferrer said it was not offered in Maryland but is offered in surrounding states. Delegates confirmed there are four OTB licenses in Maryland; Frederick is home to one. Delegate Kerr noted a reference to House Bill 1048 and said the bill has a hearing in March and that Senator Quarterman is handling a related Senate hearing.

No formal vote on the draft letter was recorded at the meeting. Several delegates said they wanted more information and time to consult with other offices before deciding whether to sign a letter of support.

The delegation will consider the matter at a future meeting or by follow-up as members gather more details and hear from the bill sponsors.