Local Politicians Say Horse Industry Jobs Are Integral to State

On Friday, Massachusetts Speaker of the House Robert DeLeo and Rep. Steven Howitt toured Rehoboth horse farms to meet with owners, tour the operations, learn more about the industry and meet with ancillary businesses. The horse racing industry impacts not only these farms, but supporting businesses such as horse track and supplies, breeders, veterinarians, farriers, bedding suppliers, hay, grain, sand and gravel, said Statehouse employee Jacob Ventura in a press release after the politicians visited Briar Hill Farm and Overnight Farm.

"I thought it was very important to have Speaker DeLeo visit our area of the state and see first hand the many jobs, farms, and businesses that support the horse racing industry," Rep. Howitt said. "I thought the tour went very well and many of the local farmers were very satisfied to speak with Speaker DeLeo about their concerns."

According to the politicians, the general message of the day was that this industry must be protected to save thousands of jobs across Massachusetts.

"My number one priority is job creation," Rep. Howitt said. "In this situation, we are trying to save these jobs. We listened about the concerns of this industry and now we must advocate the importance of horse racing and breeding to our colleagues on Beacon Hill."