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An Act To Clarify Certain Provisions in the Harness Racing Laws
Emergency preamble. Whereas, acts and resolves of the Legislature do not become effective until 90 days after adjournment unless enacted as emergencies; and
Whereas,  the harness racing season has already begun for the year 2011; and
Whereas,  provisions that promote and support the harness racing industry are beneficial to the economy and the preservation of agricultural traditions in the State; 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 §275-B, sub-§1, as amended by PL 2003, c. 401, §11, is further amended to read:
 
1. Racetracks.   A person licensed pursuant to section 271 to conduct harness horse racing with pari-mutuel betting may sell pari-mutuel pools and common pari-mutuel pools for simulcast races. The seller must be within the enclosure of the racetrack where the licensed race or race meet is conducted or within the licensee's slot machine facilities licensed pursuant to section 1011.
Sec. 2. 8 MRSA §275-C, sub-§1, as enacted by PL 1997, c. 390, §1, is amended to read:
 
1. Authority.   A person authorized to sell pari-mutuel pools on horse racing may sell common pari-mutuel pools for simulcast races. The sale must be conducted within the enclosure of the licensee's racetrack, at the licensee's slot machine facilities licensed pursuant to section 1011 or at the licensee's off-track betting facility.
Emergency clause.  In view of the emergency cited in the preamble, this legislation takes effect when approved.
 
Effective May 25, 2011.