I read an interesting report/study that was commissioned by the PA Dept. of Agriculture on racing in PA. Clearly states that restricted radius areas in the state actually are harmful to the industry on the whole and do more to discourage wagering than anything. Also pointed finger at high takeout for steadily declining handle at PA tracks. Cited declining field size as result of breeder uncertainty with Breeder's Fund and prevalence of drug violations.
It's on their website and worth a read. PA only takes a maximum of 2% on any wager, but do set a maximum takeout allowed on any particular bet. Of course, all the tracks and horsemen take the maximum, over 30% on some bets.
It's a good blueprint on how to kill an industry.
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