Today I am signing Assembly Bill No. 2610, which directs the Legislature to appropriate $20 million annually to the New Jersey Racing Commission to be used for horse racing purse subsidies through State fiscal year 2029. The legislation extends the State’s commitment to provide annual horse racing purse subsidies originally set forth in P.L.2019, c.36, which I signed in February of 2019. Since the enactment of that act, the State has appropriated $140 million for horse racing purse subsidies, including $20 million already appropriated for State fiscal year 2025. Assembly Bill No. 2610 signals the Legislature’s intent that these appropriations continue in future fiscal years through State fiscal year 2029.
New Jersey’s horse racing industry is a key economic engine, supporting thousands of jobs and attracting tourists and fans from around the world. The funding promised by this legislation will allow New Jersey to continue to offer one of the most exciting horse racing experiences in the nation, while also providing a boost to an industry that is integral to our economy.