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Senator Gerald J. LaValle (D-Beaver, Lawrence) To address the needed reforms for the state agencies charged with regulating horse and harness racing in Pennsylvania, I have recently announced legislation proposing a number of revisions to their operating procedures. The racing industry in Pennsylvania must avoid even the appearance of impropriety. With the expansion of gaming, the people of Pennsylvania are counting on us to make sure we keep it clean and free from influence. My first bill, SB 1110, would require that all appointees to state boards, commissions, and agencies reside in Pennsylvania for at least one year prior to their appointment. Current officials would have 180 days to move into the state, if they do not currently reside in Pennsylvania. While state law requires that executive nominees provide the Senate with certain information, including their voting address, there is no general residency requirement. This is a commonsense reform that is long overdue. My second proposal, SB 1109, would prohibit the immediate family members of racing commissioners from owning any interest in pari-mutuel racing activities. We have seen in the past that racing commissioners could skirt the intent of the law by transferring their ownership to family members. This change will ensure that the racing industry is protected from corruption. Companion bills have been introduced in the House by Minority Whip Mike Veon (D-Beaver). I had joined my colleagues in calling for the resignation of Richard Bolte, Sr., from the Harness Racing Commission when it was discovered he lived in New Jersey and that his wife owned horses racing in Pennsylvania. Bolte resigned in January. CapNews Guest Speaker: Archives |
