A contentious proposal to decouple Thoroughbred racing from gaming licenses in Florida has taken a step forward, despite overwhelming opposition from the state’s horse racing community. On April 1, the Florida Senate’s Regulated Industries Committee approved Senate Bill 408 with a 5-2 vote, setting the stage for further legislative battles.
While proponents argue the bill provides a structured transition, opponents, led by the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders and Owners Association (FTBOA), warn that it could cripple Florida’s horse industry.
“The Senate’s first of three committee stops showed that there’s more work to be done to fight this deeply flawed bill, but this is a fight we can win,” said FTBOA CEO Lonny Powell, according to BloodHorse. He emphasized the potential economic fallout, noting that the industry generates $3.24 billion annually and supports thousands of jobs across the state.
Industry Leaders Warn of Economic Fallout
Racing stakeholders and industry advocates gathered in Tallahassee to express their staunch opposition to the bill. Approximately 40 individuals registered opposition without speaking, while nearly 30 voiced their concerns directly to the committee. The only supporter who spoke was a lobbyist for The Stronach Group, the Canada-based operator of Gulfstream Park under its 1/ST Racing division.
Critics of the bill argue that it primarily benefits The Stronach Group at the expense of Florida’s racing ecosystem. Trainer Jena Antonucci highlighted the economic risks, stating, “If we are shrinking our racing demand, it makes it virtually impossible to grow our supply side.”
Joe Imbesi, an owner and breeder, warned that the legislation would favor a foreign corporation while harming local businesses. “On one hand, this will benefit a single Canadian company. On the other, it will severely adversely affect thousands of your constituents,” he said.
The Seven-Year Transition Period: A Lifeline or a Delay?
In an effort to address concerns, Senator Danny Burgess introduced an amendment requiring a phased transition. Under the amendment, a three-year waiting period would precede a four-year window where racing must continue before full decoupling could take place.
“This is a lengthy runway out the gate so that we can build this out,” Burgess said, urging racing stakeholders to collaborate on solutions.
Despite this concession, opponents remain wary. Trainer Mark Casse stressed that even a gradual reduction in racing days would significantly harm the industry. “If the track goes to the minimum number of days required in anticipation of decoupling seven years down the road, that by itself will be enough to decimate the industry,” he warned.
Legislative Path Forward
Senate Bill 408 still has hurdles to clear before becoming law. It must pass the Appropriations Committee on Agriculture, Environment, and General Government, as well as the Rules Committee. Meanwhile, a companion bill, HB 105, is advancing in the Florida House, raising further concerns among horsemen.
Powell and other industry leaders remain resolute in their fight. “Lawmakers must reject this bill and stand with the hardworking Floridians who keep this agricultural industry and rural Florida thriving,” he urged. As the debate intensifies, Florida’s horse racing community is bracing for the next phase of the legislative battle, determined to preserve the industry’s future in the state.