At a minimum, there should be a reasonable cap on the total number of machines statewide. Kentucky, the horse-racing Mecca of the U.S., has just over 1,800. Virginia certainly shouldn’t start with more than that as we wade into these uncharted waters. To the greatest extent possible, the HHR machines should be a true extension of the horse racing industry, rather than merely an excuse for casino gaming. For starters, HHR machines should display the actual video replay of the horse races that are being wagered on, and the machines must fully comply with the requirements for live horse races. A portion of the profits should be set aside for a fund to help problem gamblers keep from ruining their lives and their families’ lives before eventually “saddling” the taxpayers with the expense of the numerous public services they will otherwise require. Furthermore, the regulations should guarantee each community’s ability to determine whether it wants these “mini casinos” in their neighborhoods.