Two Minnesota racetracks advocate for authorized historical horseracing

Both say it is a lifeline for incoming revenue.

Minnesota horseracing tracks Canterbury Park in Shakopee and Running Aces in Columbus have addressed the impact historical horseracing (HHR) has on state revenue, according to a MPR local news report.

Both tracks have said HHR is “a critical revenue source for them.”

HHR involves bettors picking a winning horse in digital races. Players consider their choices based on horses that have raced in the past.

They went on to describe the sport as a lifeline for their businesses.

However, a bill to ban historical horse racing is under consideration. Its author, Representative Zack Stephenson, made it clear to local news authorizing HHR is not something he believes is in the best interest of the state.

He commented further by saying, “I just want to be very clear with folks, there is no universe in which any bill that leaves this committee is going to authorize historical horse racing at the tracks.

“That’s a total nonstarter will not happen will not be part of a sports betting deal. Bright red line in the sand.”

But that has not stopped talk to create a regulated sports betting market. Senator John Marty, along with two of his colleagues, has brought a new sports betting bill to the table for lawmakers.

The latest proposal would allow for sports betting, but with restrictions on college game wagers, in-game action and push notifications.

Marty said he believes certain safeguards are needed if Minnesota decides to welcome a regulated sports betting market.

To date, more than 35 states have legalized sports betting since the US Supreme Court overturned PASPA in 2018. Minnesota’s neighbors are included in those states that have embraced sports wagering since the laws have been changed.

David Thompson

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