CHAPTER 401

H.P. 521 - L.D. 704

An Act Relating to Harness Racing Laws

Emergency preamble. Whereas, Acts of the Legislature do not become effective until 90 days after adjournment unless enacted as emergencies; and

Whereas, the harness racing season is already underway for 2003; and

Whereas, what constitutes a "commercial track" and what constitutes a "market area" for commercial racetracks and off- track betting facilities need to be clarified; and

Whereas, in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of Maine and require the following legislation as immediately necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety; now, therefore,

Be it enacted by the People of the State of Maine as follows:

Sec. 1. 8 MRSA §263-B, sub-§§2 and 3, as enacted by PL 1997, c. 528, §6, are amended to read:

2. Leadership in policy making. The department, in conjunction with the commission, shall take the lead in developing develop state policy with regard to the harness racing industry and shall address the needs of the industry to remain competitive.