ALBUQUERQUE, NM—DECEMBER 10, 2020—The New Mexico Horsemen's Association filed suit December 2 against New Mexico's Horse Racing Commission, seeking return of over $8 million it alleges was improperly collected from the state's horsemen dating back to 2004. 

"New Mexico law, N.M.S.A. 1978, 60-1A-19, only allows the money distributed pursuant to the Horse Racing Act, to the Horsemen to be used for two distinct and clear purposes, one for purses and the other for medical benefits of the members of the New Mexico Horsemen's Association," the complaint states. 

Named in the suit, by representatives to both Quarter Horse and Thoroughbred owners and trainers, are the state's five commissioners and its executive director "Izzy" Trejo. 

The suit alleging the New Mexico Racing Commission improperly ordered horsemen to divert a portion of their money to racetracks for jockey liability insurance and to pay a "gate fee or starter's fee" every time a horse races. 

The suit requests the court to “order the New Mexico Racing Commission repay and return more than $8.4 million to the New Mexico Horsemen's Association. It also seeks an order for the Commission to “cease and desist from ever directing monies be spent by the New Mexico Horsemen's that by the state's statute are designated for certain purposes." 

Both Horsemen's Association and Commission Executive Directors have declined comment.