Stakeholders in the Florida horse racing industry are bracing for a major shift as House Bill 105 progresses through the legislative process. The hotly-contested Florida decoupling bill seeks to separate casino operations from live horse racing at Thoroughbred tracks.Florida Decoupling Bill Passes Subcommittee by 12:4 Vote
The passing of HB105 has received mixed reaction, and sparked serious debate. While supporters of the Bill argue for flexibility and adaptation, opponents warn that this move could spell the end of Thoroughbred racing at the Gulfstream Park and Tampa Bay Downs racetracks.Florida Decoupling Bill Passes Subcommittee by 12:4 Vote
As reported in the latest Florida casino news, the decoupling bill passed the Florida House Industries and Professional Activities Subcommittee by a decisive 12 to 4 vote, with two members excused. In its simplest form, the goal of House Bill 105 is to remove the requirement for racetracks to host a minimum number of live races in order to operate casino gaming.Florida Decoupling Bill Passes Subcommittee by 12:4 Vote
For those at Gulfstream Park, Florida’s premier racing venue, this could mean the end of Thoroughbred racing at this historic racetrack. There are also concerns about the future of the state’s other Thoroughbred track, Tampa Bay Downs, as it only holds a cardroom permit, rather than offering casino games. Sports betting sites and social sportsbooks will also have to face the harsh reality of losing a whole chunk of their current betting revenue should these racetracks close.
While defending the Bill, Rep. Adam Anderson (R-District 57) argued that other parts of the racing industry have been subjected to the decoupling measure, and this latest change is intended to bring Thoroughbred racing in line with Standardbred and Quarter Horse racing.
While Anderson asserts that House Bill 105 would not prevent racetracks from continuing to present live Thoroughbred racing, critics are raising the question of whether there is sufficient financial motivation for the racetracks to do so.
It is not difficult to imagine why many prominent figures in the horse racing industry are troubled by this move, despite repeated assurances from Rep. Anderson. Voices like that of Lonny Powell, CEO of the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders and Owners Association (FTBOA) have been loud in their opposition. Powell has stated that uncertainty around the impact of HB105 could result in a severe decline in Florida’s 2026 foal crop.
Another disapproving voice is that of trainer Jena Antonucci, who was the first woman to train a Triple Crown winner. While expressing her concerns she described Gulfstream Park as the “cornerstone of horse racing” and termed the potential impact on it as “mind-numbing.” Tampa Bay HBPA vice president Jan Meehan also lent his voice, warning about the far-reaching effects of the Bill on breeding, training, and the overall Thoroughbred industry ecosystem.
While those opposing the Florida decoupling bill are voicing their frustrations, those in favor of it continue to press on with their support. One such person is Jeff Johnston, the Gulfstream Park lobbyist who insists that racing will not be affected. He argues that those who manage the track intend to continue hosting races, despite internal discussions that suggest that will only happen until 2028.
Meanwhile, others like Rep. Toby Overdorf (R-District 85) have charged industry representatives to lay down guarantees that horse racing will not be affected. He added that Gulfstream Park has sent in applications for 200 race dates over the next two years, urging others to follow this path.
While acknowledging his passion for racing, the Bill’s sponsor, Rep. Anderson insists that the industry is on a downward spiral across the entire US, not just in Florida. However, he did confirm the state will not cut any subsidies to the racing and breeding sectors annually, which receive $20 million and $5 million, respectively.
House Bill 105 is currently headed to the Florida House Commerce Committee, following its approval by the Subcommittee. Although it has yet to be scheduled for discussion, it is buoyed by the fact that it successfully cleared its first legislative hurdle.
Those in the FTBOA continue to warn of the Bill’s threat to a $3.24 billion industry. Meanwhile, the future of Thoroughbred horse racing in Florida faces an uncertain future as the debate continues. One thing is certain Florida’s lawmakers, racing buffs, and industry leaders will be watching closely as HB105 continues to progress through the legislative system.
