US politicians have reached out to Australian lawmakers, advocating for the discontinuation of greyhound racing in Australia. They emphasize the decline of the sport in the US due to track closures and animal welfare concerns, urging Australia to consider following suit.
A bipartisan group of legislators from various American states penned an open letter to their Australian counterparts, highlighting the diminishing greyhound racing industry in the US. Once boasting nearly 70 operational tracks across 19 states, the US now only has two active racetracks in West Virginia.
Delaware North, the company that owns these remaining tracks, has expressed intentions to cease racing. However, current legislation mandates their operation alongside other forms of gambling, leading to constraints on ending the sport.
Legislators in the US have not only banned greyhound racing in multiple states but have also restricted revenue sources by outlawing remote wagering on dog races, including those in Australia. Efforts are underway at the federal level to completely prohibit gambling on dog racing.
Welfare issues plague the industry on both sides of the Pacific. In the US, concerns over greyhound injuries, deaths, and drug problems have catalyzed closures, mirroring the challenges faced by the Australian greyhound racing sector.
While the remaining races in West Virginia may appear safer compared to Australia, the toll on racing dogs in both countries remains alarming. The high incidence of deaths and injuries has prompted calls for action to protect these animals.
New Zealand has already decided to ban greyhound racing, and other regions like Scotland and Wales are moving towards similar prohibitions. In contrast, Australian state governments continue to subsidize the industry, despite its questionable sustainability without taxpayer support.
American lawmakers emphasize the benefits of phasing out greyhound racing, citing economic opportunities that arise from repurposing former racetracks for community use. They advocate for a compassionate approach that ensures a smooth transition for all stakeholders involved.
The call to end greyhound racing in Australia resonates with concerns for animal welfare and ethical considerations. The American example serves as a compelling argument for reevaluating the viability and morality of sustaining this controversial sport.
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