by Trey Nosrac
You’re welcome.
I’m sorry.
You’re welcome for my extensive reading. I apologize for my partial understanding of the material.
Concerns About the Future of Harness Racing
The future of harness racing has me worried. This was emphasized when I saw the May 18, 2025, front page headline in The Cleveland Plain Dealer, titled “Lawmakers Look to Go All In on iGaming.” The article detailed that State Senate Bill 197, introduced by Senator Nathan Manning from North Ridgeville, OH, would permit individuals over 21 to gamble through websites and apps featuring casino-style games. The bill is currently under review by Ohio’s Senate select committee on gaming.
Implications of Senate Bill 197
The legislation aims to allow Ohio’s four casinos and seven racinos to launch online platforms for casino-style games such as roulette, slots, blackjack, and poker, along with internet gambling on both real and simulated horse racing.
Reading the Legislation
Upon examining the bill’s details, I felt a mix of interest and apprehension regarding the impact on Ohio’s harness racing scene. I proceeded to download the proposed legislation and encountered a document roughly the length of Tolstoy’s *Anna Karenina*—701 pages filled with legal jargon that few would likely read in full. For those needing a sleep aid, the link to the full document is here.
Concerns Over Legislative Intent
Despite my attempt to digest the lengthy document (with some skimming), one alarming detail stood out. Starting on page 188, line 5713, I noticed the term “Racing Commission” was crossed out, leaving just “Commission.” If my reading is correct, the Ohio Casino Control Commission would oversee all gambling activities, including horse racing, which could effectively eliminate the Ohio State Racing Commission if the bill passes.
Unanswered Questions for Harness Racing Community
Many in the harness racing community are often unaware of changes in gaming legislation. There is uncertainty regarding our representation in the Ohio Senate’s committee on gaming and the implications of this bill. Very few in our community are likely informed about this legislation, and it would be beneficial for knowledgeable experts to shed light on these developments to avoid unforeseen consequences.
Speculative Thoughts
The idea of an Ohio Casino Control Commission regulating horse racing should raise significant concerns for advocates of harness racing. Other powerful entities in the gambling ecosystem, such as casinos and online betting platforms, are unlikely to prioritize harness racing in their agendas. Alarmingly, many articles I found discussing this legislation failed to mention its impact on horse racing, focusing instead on the legislation’s swift progression.
Final Reflections
The expansion of gambling is unmistakably underway, with public resistance diminishing. If this bill passes, it could lead to irresponsible gambling behavior that harms families. I find it disheartening to think about the lack of advocates for harness racing; it feels like the stakes are high, and existing powers may not have our best interests at heart. After tackling this lengthy legislation, I feel more inclined to read *War and Peace*, as it now appears less daunting. Should harness racing become sidelined, I might find myself with plenty of time for reading.
