An incorporated non-profit organization, the New Mexico Horsemen's
Association was formed in 1966 for the purpose of promoting the
welfare and health of licensed owners, trainers and grooms
connected with horse racing in New Mexico.
NMHA Funding:
The NMHA receives one percent of all purse monies and $5.00
starter fee, except for monies from nomination fees which are
owner generated.
New Mexico is the only state which has 50 percent of net retained
going to purse structure as mandated by state statute. The
Association keeps daily records of handle and amounts to be
distributed to purses at each track.
Gaming Monies:
Monies are all kept in separate bank accounts for each track with the
Breeders portion wire transferred to them weekly and the balance
going back to track purses as needed. Complete records are kept
and furnished to the Racing Commission. Money from gaming has
increased purses significantly.
Activities
and Accomplishments:
The NMHA was successful in getting legislation mandating that 1/2
of one percent wagered on simulcasting goes to the Association for
distribution as follows: Half of this amount goes back to purses (ITW
money) at the track where it was generated; the other half goes to
the medical fund of the Association to be used for medical
benefits for owners, trainers, and back-side personnel.
The NMHA was instrumental in getting law exempting owners and
trainers from gross receipts tax. Each year the NMHA lobbyist in
Santa Fe tracks all legislative bills which could impact racing.
The NMHA assisted in getting the gaming bill passed in the 1997
legislative session.
The NMHA, through mediation has agreed with track managements that
they will no longer take a 5% simulcast expense adjustment fee,
but will settle on a flat cash fee for their expenses on
out-of-state simulcast wagering, which means less money taken away
from purses.
The NMHA has representatives at all New Mexico State Racing
Commission meetings to address the concerns of horsemen. We act as
liaison with the track management and work with them regarding any
problems affecting the horsemen.
For
the Convenience of Horsemen:
Offices are provided at each track during the race meets. Or you
can contact our main office year round, Monday through Friday,
8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
