Statement from Maryland Labor Secretary Directing Thoroughbred and Standardbred Industries to Consent to Binding Arbitration

Industries unable to negotiate mutual agreement on simulcasting during mediation process

BALTIMORE, MD (October 3, 2011) – Maryland Labor Secretary Alexander M. Sanchez directed representatives from the Standardbred and Thoroughbred industries today to consent to de novo binding arbitration to reach agreement that would permit Rosecroft Raceway, a standardbred race track in Prince George’s County, to import and accept wagers on out-of-state thoroughbred races.

Earlier today, Sanchez sent the involved parties an official letter of notice and released this statement:

“I appreciate the good faith that representatives from the standardbred and thoroughbred industries showed during the mediation process but am disappointed that no agreement could be reached. As required by legislation passed by the General Assembly and signed by Governor O’Malley earlier this year, I am directing all involved parties to consent to de novo binding arbitration before the American Arbitration Association or with an independent arbitrator of my choosing and their approval. I am hopeful that the two industries will reach a mutually beneficial agreement through arbitration that will lay the foundation for a long-term solution that honors and protects Maryland’s storied racing tradition.”

The Secretary’s directive comes after 90 days of legislatively-mandated mediation between the industries. During the mediation process, Sanchez facilitated negotiations aimed to structure an agreement that would benefit both industries and provide long-term stability for Maryland’s historic racing tradition.

The Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation protects and empowers Marylanders by safeguarding workers, protecting consumers, providing a safety net and cultivating a thriving workforce that can meet the demands of Maryland’s dynamic economy. Follow DLLR on Twitter (@MD_DLLR) and Facebook.

Updated October 3, 2011