The ASPCA is Disappointed Over Governor Jeb Bush's Decision to Not Veto Racetrack Gambling Bill

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
Thursday, 7 August 2003

Bush allows high-stakes poker to become a law.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) is disappointed that Governor Jeb Bush has allowed H.B. 1059, a bill to legalize high-stakes poker at Florida dog tracks, to become a law. "This new law will directly impact greyhounds who already suffer greatly for the entertainment of track patrons," says Lisa Weisberg, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs & Public Policy for the ASPCA. "Contrary to what has been said by the bill's supporters it does not simply 'modify' gambling, it clearly expands it."

Each year, thousands of greyhounds are killed when they are no longer profitable at the track. The greyhound racing industry depends on the over-breeding and killing of thousands of greyhounds, but has fortunately lost popularity among younger generations. Without gambling to artificially prop up the otherwise declining tracks they would probably cease to exist. In prior years, many Florida voters, including Governor Bush have opposed gambling. Last week, the ASPCA, The Humane Society of the United States and GREY2K USA had sent a joint letter to Governor Bush urging him to veto H.B. 1059.

Founded in 1866, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) was the first humane organization established in the Western Hemisphere and exists to promote humane principles, prevent cruelty and alleviate pain, fear and suffering in animals. 740,000 members and donors support our mission. The ASPCA provides national programming and leadership in humane education and public awareness, government affairs and public policy, shelter support, animal placement, animal medical services and poison control services. While there is no direct reporting relationship with other SPCA's, the ASPCA National Shelter Outreach department provides extensive assistance and support to shelters nationwide. The New York City headquarters houses a full-service animal hospital, animal behavior center, adoption facility, and Humane Law Enforcement (HLE) Department, which is responsible for enforcing New York's animal cruelty laws. The original reality series Animal Precinct, airing on the Animal Planet network, chronicles the work of the ASPCA's HLE agents as they investigate cases of animal cruelty. Now in its third season, the award-winning documentary is seen by millions of viewers nationally. The ASPCA is a privately funded 501 [c] [3] not-for-profit corporation. For more information, visit www.aspca.org or our online adoption partner www.petfinder.com.

For more information, or to contact American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, see their website at: www.aspca.org