10 States Have Already Authorized Racinos.

Racinos are a proven model for gaming across the country. Ten states have already approved Racinos, and are enjoying the benefits of enhanced state tax revenues, a stronger horse and agriculture industry, and the creation of new jobs and investment. Since the Minnesota legislature adjourned last May, two more states – Oklahoma and Pennsylvania - have added to the growing list of states approving Racinos.

Unlike other gaming models, Racinos have a significant impact on a state's horse and agriculture economy. Since 1998, the year

Racinos were approved in New Mexico, the state has witnessed: 

• 216% growth in the amount of money spent on alfalfa and grain;

• 324% growth in the amount spent on veterinary services; and

• 413% growth in the amount spent on horse trailers.

In every state where they have been implemented, Racinos have enhanced the agriculture economy while delivering vital tax

revenues to the state coffers. A glance at the tax rates of Racinos across the country shows the Canterbury Park model would be one of the most successful at raising new tax revenue for the state.

Other states considering legislation for slot machines at racetracks:

Florida

Indiana
Kansas
Kentucky
Maryland
New Hampshire
Texas

Iowa Racino Flourishes

Racino Stats

Authorized: 1994

Slots: 3,513

'04 Gross State Revenue: $89.0 million

Prairie Meadows Racetrack was bankrupt and its doors were closed when the addition of slots was approved in 1994. Since

then, the racino has produced huge benefits for the Iowa's horse industry.

From 1995 to 1997, Iowa became the nation's fastest-growing thoroughbred breeding state, jumping from 28th to 12th nationally in total foals bred. The annual spending for the care and maintenance of horses increased from $41 million in 1995 to $97 million in 1999 according to Iowa State University.

In 2002, Polk County residents voted to approve the racino for another eight years. Sixty-six percent of the voters supported the racino – a larger margin of victory than was originally achieved in 1994.