The State Senate has passed legislation (S.1047-A) sponsored by Senator Bill Larkin (R-C, Cornwall-on-Hudson) that would grant the Agricultural and NYS Horse Breeding Development Fund the authority to transfer funds that support the works of the Harness Racing Museum and Hall of Fame and the Goshen Historic Track.

Both of these institutions help to promote the standard-bred horse industry and harness racing in New York State. However, current law is not clear on whether the fund can disburse monies to either of these organizations.

"Some have argued that the current law does not support the New York based equine industry as much as it could," said Senator Larkin. "But by allowing this fund to direct its resources to the Harness Racing Museum and Hall of Fame and the Goshen Historic Track, this bill will ultimately help to promote harness racing, standard-bred horse breeding programs and horse racing events across New York State."

The bill was sent to the Assembly.