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Administrative History

The New York State Off-Track Betting Commission was created by Chapter 143 of the Laws of 1970. The Commission was authorized to establish and regulate off-track pari-mutual betting on horse races. The Commission consisted of a chairman and four members who were appointed by the Governor with the approval of the Senate. In 1973, the law was revised (L. 1973, Ch. 346) to provide for the creation of a maximum of eight regional off-track betting corporations. All the powers, duties and functions previously conferred on the State Off-Track Pari-Mutual Betting Commission were transferred to the New York State Racing and Wagering Board. Since 1973, the Board has been responsible for regulating the six off-track regional betting corporations representing the Capital district, as well as the Catskill, Nassau, New York City, Suffolk, and western regions. Each regional off-track betting corporation is a public benefit corporation with responsibility for the management of the OTB branch offices under its jurisdiction.

Each regional corporation is required to submit a monthly financial statement to the State Racing and Wagering Board within fifteen days after the end of each month (L. 1973, Ch. 346). All reports are subject to audit by the State Comptroller.