Md. officials say tentative racing deal reached
December 23, 2010ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) - An aide to Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley and horse racing representatives say a tentative agreement has been reached to allow a full calendar of 146 racing days and keep the Preakness Stakes in the state.
Joseph Bryce, O'Malley's chief legislative officer, told reporters about the agreement after meeting with horse racing representatives Wednesday morning in Annapolis.
Bryce says between $3.5 million and $4 million would be redirected from the state's slot machine proceeds to pay for operating cost.
The plan still needs approval by the Maryland Racing Commission.
The agreement was announced a day after the commission voted to reject a proposal by the owners of Pimlico Race Course and Laurel Park to conduct live racing next year.