Etc. . . .

The New Jersey Racing Commission approved an amended dates request from the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority, reducing the number of live racing days at the authority's two tracks from 141 to 120. Monmouth Park will run 92 days between May 24 and Sept. 28, and The Meadowlands will run 28 days, Oct. 2 to Nov. 8. . . . A bill that would allow video lottery terminals at racetracks and jai alai frontons in Florida was passed out of a state Senate committee Monday, but prospects for the legislation seem dim. Last week, the House killed a similar bill, and Gov. Jeb Bush has said he opposes expanded gambling in the state. . . . Because of the recent detection of equine herpes virus at Turfway Park, River Downs has new requirements for the use of stall space and training on the track. A veterinarian-approved certificate noting a horse's temperature within 24 hours of arrival will be necessary when the barn area opens March 29. . . . The Washington Horse Racing Commission, already shorthanded after the resignation of its chairman, Pat LePley, earlier this year, will shrink to three members after the resignation of James Hovis, effective the end of April. Gov. Gary Locke, who hopes to merge the racing commission with the state Gambling Commission, is not expected to appoint a replacement for either member.