Florida’s controversial decoupling legislation advanced on Wednesday when a House subcommittee not only progressed a bill that would remove the requirement for Gulfstream Park to run a minimum number of live Thoroughbred races to operate its casino, but also amended the bill to apply similar terms to cardroom gaming license holders. This means Tampa Bay Downs would have the option to cease racing if the bill is signed into law.
The House Industries & Professional Activities Subcommittee reported HB 105 as “favorable” by a 12-4 vote on February 5. An identical bill has been filed in the Florida Senate, but it has yet to be considered by a committee for a recommendation.
The South Florida Sun Sentinel reported that Wednesday’s hearing faced strong criticism from opponents who argued that it would lead to the end of racing and severely impact the state’s horse-breeding industry.
The potential legislation allowing Gulfstream Park to end Thoroughbred racing has been a significant concern at the national level since mid-January. At that time, Gulfstream’s owner, The Stronach Group (TSG), informed Florida industry stakeholders that it could only guarantee racing at Gulfstream Park through 2028 if the proposed bill to decouple Thoroughbred horseracing from casino licenses passes the state legislature.
During Wednesday’s subcommittee session, bill sponsor Representative Adam Anderson claimed that his goal of decoupling was to support the Thoroughbred industry. Anderson argued that decoupling would provide the tracks with the necessary tools to make better business decisions and increase their profitability.
WUSF radio in Florida quoted Lonny Powell, the Chief Executive Officer of the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association (FTBOA), as testifying against the legislation.
The bill is filed for the legislative session beginning on March 4.
