For thoroughbred and greyhound racing to survive in West Virginia – and public opinion on whether that is a priority seems to be mixed – structural changes in the sports themselves will be necessary.
A committee formed by the State Racing Commission to look at the issue has recommended some such changes. One would give the state’s four racetracks, including two in the Northern Panhandle, more flexibility in how many days of racing are offered.
But the panel also suggested allowing more gambling, such as sports betting at racetracks, to prop up horse and dog racing.
Surely we have learned our lesson in West Virginia – that adding more legalized gambling would be only a temporary “fix.” Sooner or later, competition from other states will cut into the proceeds.
Legislators should consider some of the panel’s suggestions – but they are right to be skeptical of new forms of legalized gambling.