TAMPA, Fla. — More than five million Floridians voted "yes" to amendment 13 Tuesday night. All Florida tracks must stop dog racing by the end of 2020.
This is a huge victory for the humane society of Tampa Bay.
"We are very happy," said Sherry Silk, CEO of the Humane Society.
Related: Florida votes to ban greyhound racing by 2021, signaling possible end of the sport inUS
"I'm glad the dogs won," said Silk.
For her, the choice was easy, "because the dogs were kept in cages for a long time and there were dog deaths every three days."
Those who opposed the amendment said the dogs were healthy and never mistreated. According to them, getting rid of racing could leave thousands jobless, and end a business that brings in millions for the state.
According to the state, dog racing revenue has been on the decline for years, and a lot of the industry's money comes from card games and slot machines at tracks, like Derby lane.
Silk said she does feel bad for those who might lose their job, but "people are just going to have to find other jobs."
She and the majority of the state believe the safety of the dogs is more important.
Another concern for those in the dog racing industry is what will happen to the greyhounds impacted by this new law.
She shared that concern with Silk.
"These dogs will end up in a shelter or a rescue group and will [find] a home," she said. "They're so amazing."
