Colts Neck Committee urges legislature to defeat bills that would cut thoroughbred racing requirements

The Colts Neck Township Committee voted on Feb. 11 to adopt Resolution 2026-46 urging the New Jersey Legislature to defeat bills S5028 and A6301, which the committee said would reduce the minimum required annual thoroughbred racing at Mammoth Park.

Mayor Viola told the meeting the bills are currently before the Assembly Tourism, Gaming and Arts Committee and urged residents to contact assembly members to express concern, noting that "we have roughly a hundred stables, farms, and equestrian locations in our township" and that changes could have a "damning effect" on owners, boarders, veterinarians and laborers who rely on the local equine economy.

The committee placed the resolution on the agenda under new business and approved it by roll call. Committee members voted in favor during the roll call recorded at the meeting.

Why it matters: Committee members said the equestrian industry is a meaningful local employer and a substantial part of Colts Neck’s rural character. Reductions in mandated racing could change demand for local stabling, care and associated services, the committee said.

What happens next: The resolution is a formal expression of the township’s position and does not change state law; it asks legislators to oppose S5028/A6301 as those bills move through committee. Committee members encouraged residents to contact Assembly members, noting that the legislation was receiving committee-level consideration at the time of the meeting.

The committee’s action was procedural and advisory; no state-level outcome was decided by the township.