DC 37 Reports Progress in Talks with State and City Officials to
Save New York City Off-Track Betting (OTB)

District Council 37 announced today that real progress is being made in talks aimed at saving New York City Off-Track Betting (OTB). The New York State Governor's Office, Senate and Assembly and the City of New York have been meeting and real progress has been made on this issue. We expect these talks to continue next week at an accelerated pace to reach a solution before the June 15th deadline.

DC 37 Executive Director Lillian Roberts stated, "The Governor, the State Legislature and the City are in discussions with us on protecting NYC OTB, which handles 40% of state wagering. We are fighting to protect the jobs of 1,508 NYC OTB workers, many of whom are members of DC 37 Local 2021, and the health care benefits of OTB retirees. While the talks have not reached a conclusion, real progress is being made and we are assured by all parties that a solution will be reached to save NYC OTB."

"OTB takes in $1.1 billion in handle, which generates revenue for New York State, NYC and the entire racing industry. This is very important at a time when we're experiencing a financial crunch," said Ms. Roberts. "All parties involved have every reason to reach a fair an equitable solution regarding NYC OTB that will preserve jobs and continue this much-needed revenue stream for the future."

DC 37 is New York City's largest public employee union, representing 125,000 members and 50,000 retirees.