Small Illinois farmers and breeders may soon be forced out of the horse racing industry if our legislature approves plans to allow slots at racetracks, thus making them "mini-casinos." Increased purses from additional track revenues would attract the large, politically powerful stables from a variety of states to further control an already struggling industry.

The proposed bill coming before the Illinois House that would allow racetracks to offer slot machines or video lottery terminals (VLTs) needs to be voted down. In most cases the livelihood of Illinois' horse industry has been passed down from generation to generation — father to son, father to daughter. This legislation puts at risk the heritage and great traditions of horse racing in Illinois and the ability of the fellow citizens of our state to make a decent, honest living.

It is in their best interests and in the well-being of all of the big and small people associated with Illinois' horse trade that our legislators stop this bill before it goes any further. Horse racing in its purest sense is a sport that demonstrates the best that a horse and its jockey can be, regardless of the influence and financial backing behind them.

Horse racing has in generations past entertained and for future generations to come will continue to entertain so many fans throughout our state and around the world to both young and old every racing season. Let's keep Illinois a state that respects these people and their horses and honors this great sport.