Florida lawmakers are considering legislation that would decouple casino licenses from Thoroughbred tracks, a move that is opposed by national horsemen’s groups, the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders and Owners Association, and many members of the local horsemen’s organization at Gulfstream Park. The proposed bill would remove the requirement for a casino permitholder tied to Thoroughbred racing to conduct live racing, potentially affecting Gulfstream Park as the only track with a casino in Florida.
1/ST Racing, the owner of Gulfstream Park, has been pushing for the decoupling legislation, suggesting that there is consensus support for the change. The bill, sponsored by Florida State Rep. Adam Anderson, would go into effect on July 1 if passed. The proposed legislation has raised concerns among breeders and owners in Florida, who have long opposed decoupling and are worried about the future of Thoroughbred racing in the state.
The local horsemen’s organization at Gulfstream Park has agreed to support 1/ST Racing’s efforts to decouple Thoroughbred racing, a decision that has shocked trainers and owners in the industry. The move has led to plans for litigation by some members who feel that the organization did not fulfill its fiduciary duties. National horsemen’s groups have emphasized their opposition to decoupling and the need for local groups to be affiliated with national organizations to provide support and information on such issues.
