A Senate committee in Florida advanced a decoupling bill that would remove the live racing requirement for Gulfstream Park and Tampa Bay Downs to operate their casino and card room. The effective date for this change was amended to be seven years instead of five. The bill received opposition from Thoroughbred industry stakeholders who spoke out against it during a two-hour hearing, expressing concerns about the impact on the industry and the future of horse racing in the state.
Senator Jennifer Bradley, who chairs the Committee on Regulated Industries, acknowledged the concerns raised by industry stakeholders and assured them that the legislative dialogue about decoupling is ongoing. She emphasized the need for conversations about the future of horse racing in Florida and the importance of reaching a balance that allows the industry to thrive. The bill was supported by Gulfstream’s corporate owner, The Stronach Group, but faced opposition from many in the Thoroughbred industry.
Despite opposition from Thoroughbred industry stakeholders, the decoupling bill advanced to the Appropriations Committee on Agriculture, Environment, and General Government, and then to the Rules Committee. The bill has sparked a debate about the future of horse racing in Florida and the impact of decoupling on the industry. The legislative session is expected to end on May 2, leaving limited time for further discussions and decisions on the bill.
