The fast-emerging activity of historical horse racing will be the focus of the Committee on Pari-Mutuels when the National Council of Legislators from Gaming States (NCLGS) holds its Winter Meeting, January 4-6 at Harrah’s New Orleans.

Historical horse racing (HHR) is promoted is a legitimate pari-mutuel activity but critics contend it is simply a legal workaround to allow slot-like games at racetracks. HHR is operating in four states, with Kentucky leading the field by a large margin, and has been authorized in Virginia. Several other states are now, or have recently, considered allowing HHR at racetracks. Experts on this panel examine HHR from legal, regulatory and operational perspectives.

“As states look to both support their pari-mutuel industries and expand their gaming options, they are examining whether historical horse racing is a viable option – both from an economic and legal perspective,” said NCLGS president William Coley, a Senator from Ohio. “We look forward to learning from four experts in the field.”

The committee will hear from the following presenters: Eric Hamelback, CEO, National Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association; Corey Johnson, president, Kentucky Downs; Tamara Malvin, partner, Akerman; and Katherine M. Paisley, general counsel & VP of compliance, Exacta Systems.

More than 200 attendees, including dozens of state legislators, are expected to attend the three-day NCLGS Winter Meeting. The conference agenda includes a keynote address from former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, whose arguments before the Supreme Court resulted in overturning the federal prohibition on sports betting.