Backstretch Pension Signups Going Virtual Again in 2021

Virtual sign-ups for the Maryland Backstretch Pension Plan are again an option this year because of ongoing physical-distancing requirements issued by state government officials because of COVID-19.

Sign-ups will be available in April, and the deadline to sign up is June 1, 2021.

Horsemen employed in the care of horses on the backstretch at Laurel Park, Pimlico Race Course or the Fair Hill Training Center, including trainers, are eligible to participate. However, the eligible employee must have worked a minimum of 1,000 hours during 2020 and provide documentation to that effect (with a W-2 or 1099 form, or tax return).