New York State Gaming Commission Chairman Brian O’Dwyer is taking new steps to address wage issues involving prominent horse trainers, the commission announced Monday.

O'Dwyer says he recently called for an examination of licensed trainers who owe significant back-pay to workers, including hundreds of thousands of dollars in back wages. 

"This should be fair warning to all. Just as we expect equine athletes to be treated with dignity and respect, so too we expect all who work in the industry to be treated with dignity and respect," he said. "Most trainers and workers at New York State’s racetracks comply with the law. But when we learn of trainers not paying workers, we hold them accountable."

The gaming commission is also partnering with the New York State Department of Labor to identify any commission licensees that are subjects of labor wage-related investigations.

"We remain dedicated to ensuring that hardworking New Yorkers receive wages they rightfully earned. I thank the New York Gaming Commission for helping to protect workers by holding horse trainers accountable and ensuring a level playing field for all," New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said.