MD HB1598

Racing licensees may now receive grants from the Racetrack Facility Renewal Account for capital construction plans without providing a matching fund, changing this from a mandatory requirement to an optional one.

Licensees who receive grants without a matching fund must agree to conduct live racing in Maryland for at least 10 years after the construction plan is complete.

If a licensee receiving a grant without a matching fund fails to conduct live racing for the required 10 years, the State Racing Commission must recapture grant funds on a pro rata basis.

Minimum annual live racing day requirements remain in effect for years funding is provided: 60 days for Rosecroft Raceway and 40 days for Ocean Downs Racetrack.

The State Racing Commission must adopt regulations establishing guidelines for licensees requesting grants without expending a matching fund.