November 12, 2024
“Just as the Gaming Commission is concerned with the welfare of racehorses, riders and drivers, we are concerned with the wellbeing of the dedicated backstretch workers who make the sport possible. These individuals must be fairly compensated, and all licensed trainers must abide by labor laws.
“Courts have determined Thoroughbred Trainer Steven M. Asmussen’s stable engaged in ‘willful’ violations of such labor laws, causing the Commission to question whether Mr. Asmussen should continue to participate in New York racing and issuing a formal Notice of Hearing to address the issue.
“The Commission and Mr. Asmussen have now entered an agreement to ensure his stable abides by all labor laws. As part of the agreement, Mr. Asmussen must obtain a Commission-selected monitor to report quarterly on compliance with such laws for the next two years, and he must inform the Commission of any additional labor violations.
“Should there be non-compliance with labor laws, or the Commission becomes aware of further violations, we reserve the right to take further action concerning Mr. Asmussen’s license.
“All trainers should take note and operate accordingly: New York State takes labor laws very seriously.”
The agreement may be found here.