Dear Horseman:
You may have heard a news report in Eastern Virginia about efforts by the Pamunkey Indian Tribe to venture into gaming in the state. We are aware of this information and are monitoring developments. Our single focus right now is finalizing the approval of Historic Horse Racing (HHR) legislation passed overwhelmingly by the Virginia House of Delegates and Senate. If the Governor signs HB 1609, Colonial Downs will be purchased, and Thoroughbred racing will return to the New Kent facility in 2019. The Virginia Horse Center, Virginia Tech’s Veterinary School, and the Virginia Horse Industry Board will all benefit from monies generated by Historic Horse Racing. Please contact the Governor’s office using our VoterVoice system, asking him to sign HB 1609 with no changes – this is crucial for helping grow Virginia’s horse industry.
Please be sure to pass this message along to any of your friends and colleagues involved with the industry. We thank you for your time and efforts.
Regards,
Debbie Easter/Jeb Hannum
Virginia Equine Alliance