The Latest Stimulus Bill Had Tax Breaks for Race Horses, But Left Stable Workers Without Help
Tiz The Law walks in the barn after a morning workout prior to the 152nd running of the Belmont Stakes. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
In addition to enhanced unemployment benefits, $600 stimulus checks, and renewing the eviction moratorium, Congress’ most recent $900 billion coronavirus stimulus bill included some unrelated surprises. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, whose home state hosts the Kentucky Derby, added a last-minute rider called the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act. The act would improve the welfare of thoroughbred horses by ending the practice of medication abuse, which often leads to horse injuries and deaths. Additionally, Congress extended tax breaks for the racehorse industry that would allow all racehorses to be claimed as depreciable property over three years, translating to tax write-offs of up to $500,000.
New York Race Track Chaplaincy To Honor Irad Ortiz Jr. Sponsored by:
Irad Ortiz Jr.
The New York Race Track Chaplaincy will honor jockey Irad Ortiz Jr. for his generous and continued devotion to the backstretch community at its fundraiser during the 2021 Saratoga racing meet in Saratoga Springs, N.Y.
“Since his arrival on the New York Racing Association circuit, Irad has demonstrated a deep appreciation for our backstretch community, and his actions have directly and indirectly improved the quality of life for those who make their living caring for horses,” said Humberto Chavez, the chaplain for the NY Chaplaincy. “He is immensely deserving of this honor.”
Racetrack chaplains aid Saratoga workers during winter months
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Chaplain Humberto Chavez helps backstretch workers in all of New York s racetracks including Saratoga Springs in summer and in winter.Skip DicksteinShow MoreShow Less
2of5The most popular horse on the Saratoga grounds, Tiz the Law, takes a water break at trainer Barclay Tagg s barn Friday morning on the backstretch. That s Tiz s best friend, groom Juan Barajas, leading the horse to water on the overcast morning. Tiz the Law, set to run in the Grade I Travers at the Spa on Aug. 8, is coming off a win in the Belmont Stakes. He is owned by Saratoga Springs Jack Knowlton s Sackatoga Stable. (Tim Wilkin / Times Union) Show MoreShow Less