Republicans offer rescue of New York City OTB
At the Suffolk OTB in Bay Shore, visitors prepare to bet on the Triple Crown race at Belmont Racetrack. (June 5, 2004) Credit: Newsday File
New York City Off-Track Betting Corp. may not be quite dead yet.
A few potential rescue plans for the 40-year-old bookmaking operation are floating around Albany after the state Senate failed to approve a plan a week ago.
Now closed to betting for a week, New York City OTB is already hurting the racing industry. Its value is also diminishing as more of its bettors close their accounts, making a takeover less enticing.
OTB chairman Lawrence Schwartz scoffed at the chances of last-minute rescues including one proposed by Senate Republicans Tuesday. He’s deeply skeptical legislators will put aside partisanship even to save hundreds of OTB jobs.
After internal political pressures, the Senate last week failed to approve a reorganization plan.
Sarra Sounds Off, Ep. 21 Massapequa, Miller Place wrestling champs Newsday's Gregg Sarra talks about Massapequa and Miller Place wrestling teams winning state dual meet championships and Jonathan Ruban takes a look at the undefeated Northport girls basketball team.
Sarra Sounds Off, Ep. 21 Massapequa, Miller Place wrestling champs Newsday's Gregg Sarra talks about Massapequa and Miller Place wrestling teams winning state dual meet championships and Jonathan Ruban takes a look at the undefeated Northport girls basketball team.
