Md. Senate approves Preakness measure
By BRIAN WITTE, Associated Press Writer
Apr 11, 2:40 pm EDT
http://sports.yahoo.com/rah/news;_ylt=AuJqW0kszVYIjC3Vp2v7mdgX47kF?slug=ap-preakness&prov=ap&type=lgns
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP)—The Maryland Senate has approved emergency legislation to give the state eminent domain authority to keep the Preakness Stakes in Maryland, in hopes the measure will strengthen the state’s hand to avoid losing the race through a federal bankruptcy case.
Saturday’s vote was 32-14.
Gov. Martin O’Malley’s administration characterizes the legislation as a last-resort emergency insurance policy, in case a buyer does not emerge to keep the race in Maryland. The problem stems from the federal bankruptcy case involving Magna Entertainment Corp., which owns Pimlico Race Course, the home of the Preakness.
The measure now goes to the House of Delegates, where similar legislation is pending. Lawmakers are hurrying to get the bill passed before Monday’s adjournment.
