GREYHOUND GROUP URGES STATE TO RECONSIDER RACE RULING
Decision runs contrary to state pari-mutuel laws
TALLAHASSEE -- The Florida Greyhound Association (FGA) asked state regulators Thursday to reverse its decision to allow Melbourne Greyhound Park to cancel live racing until December, which could jeopardize the safety of hundreds of dogs there.
Track operators refuse to abide by the original 2007-08 racing schedule that was approved by the state Division of Pari-Mutuel Wagering. The track was scheduled to run 364 races from July 1, 2007 through June 30, 2008, under its annual operating license with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
But five days ago, track operators cancelled all greyhound racing for the next six months – without prior permission from state regulators -- and ordered kennel operators to leave the premises by July 15.
“Kennel operators expected to board and care for hundreds of greyhounds at Melbourne Greyhound Park for the next 12 months,’’ FGA President Phil Ruotolo said. “This is a wrongful eviction that jeopardizes the safety of these dogs.’’
In a July 5 letter to Division Director David Roberts, Mr. Ruotolo asks him to reverse his decision and follow a state law that allows only “minor changes” to a race schedule.
“We argue that these changes are major and have created tremendous turmoil for the kennel operators, their employees and most of all, the greyhounds,’’ Mr. Ruotolo said.
Florida pari-mutuel laws states that if a track that fails to operate all performances specified on its license, the division “shall hold a hearing to determine whether to fine or suspend the permitholder's license.”
The FGA called for the division to hold that hearing immediately and to reconsider the schedule changes.
For more Information please contact Alisa Snow (850-443-1319)