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Impact of stricter immigration policies on U.S. horse racing industry

US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) apprehended over 80 employees during a Louisiana racetrack raid in mid-June, an incident that reemerged as a subject in a panel talk at the Saratoga Racing and Gaming Conference, held on Monday in Saratoga Springs, New York, in late August.

Impact of intensified immigration enforcement measures on American horse racing industry
Impact of intensified immigration enforcement measures on American horse racing industry

Impact of stricter immigration policies on U.S. horse racing industry

In a recent gathering at the Saratoga Racing and Gaming Conference, panelists discussed the potential impact of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) visits on racetrack operations. The conversation was prompted by a raid at a Louisiana racetrack that took place two months prior to the conference.

During the raid, more than 80 employees were arrested, creating an immediate staffing shortage. The specific nature of the criminal records of two arrested employees at Delta Downs Racetrack, Hotel and Casino, located in Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana, was not disclosed.

The panelists at the Saratoga Racing and Gaming Conference, held in Saratoga Springs, New York, suggested that all racetrack operators should prepare for potential ICE visits. However, they did not provide any specific suggestions for how racetracks could protect themselves from such raids.

In light of this, experts recommend that racetrack operators adopt several best practices to manage potential immigration-related issues. These include developing compliance and legal preparedness plans, building relationships with legal and labor experts, implementing workforce contingency planning, fostering a compliant and transparent workplace environment, communicating with employees, collaborating with local agencies and community organizations, and regularly reviewing and updating policies.

John Brennan, who was present at the Saratoga Racing and Gaming Conference, was not associated with the ICE raid at the Louisiana racetrack. He is, however, associated with Casino Reports.

The panelists at the conference did not discuss the impact of the ICE raid at Delta Downs Racetrack on the overall horse racing industry. The focus of the conference remains on topics related to horse racing.

For more tailored guidance, racetrack operators are advised to consult legal professionals specializing in labor and immigration law.

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