The Senate Regulated Industries Committee approved a bill that would allow Florida’s Thoroughbred tracks to offer other types of gambling without holding races, a practice known as “decoupling.” This bill, sponsored by Sen. Danny Burgess, would ensure racing at the tracks for seven more years before eliminating the racing requirement.
Opponents of the bill, including breeders, trainers, and others in the horse industry, argue that decoupling could have a devastating effect on Florida jobs. They believe the bill prioritizes Canadian gaming interests over Florida’s family farms and small businesses, potentially pushing economic opportunities out of the state.
Supporters of the bill, such as lobbyist Jeff Johnston for Gulfstream, point to a declining horse-racing industry and new competition from legal sports betting as reasons for decoupling. The Senate bill still needs to clear two more committees before going to the full Senate, while a House version is positioned to go to the full House.