The bill SB90 Engrossed amends the Code of Alabama 1975 to enhance the operational framework of the Greene County Racing Commission and adjust member compensation. Key provisions include an increase in annual compensation for commission members, which will now be determined by the local legislative delegation instead of a fixed amount. A residency requirement is established, mandating that commission members must have lived in Alabama for at least five years prior to their appointment. The bill also allows the commission to employ assistants and employees, with their compensation funded by the commission's collected revenues. Significant deletions from current law include the removal of restrictions on the number of racing days and the repeal of provisions related to license suspension and manipulation of racing outcomes, indicating a shift towards a more flexible and modern regulatory approach.

Additionally, the bill introduces new licensing and operational regulations for racetracks and pari-mutuel wagering, increasing the maximum annual license fee from $1,000 to $25,000 and establishing that licenses are non-transferable and location-specific. The commission is empowered to issue a maximum of two licenses and to enforce penalties for violations. The bill also outlines new tax structures for licensees, including a four percent tax on simulcast pari-mutuel pools and a ten percent tax on historical horse racing pools, with specific allocations for local services. Notably, it modifies the distribution of funds, reducing allocations to the Greene County Commission while increasing those for the Greene County Hospital Board and other local authorities. The bill aims to streamline regulations and enhance the governance of racing operations in Greene County, with an immediate effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45-32-150, 45-32-150, 45-32-150, 45-32-150, 45-32-150, 45-32-150, 45-32-150, 45-32-150, 45-32-150, 45-32-150, 45-32-150, 45-32-150
Engrossed: 45-32-150, 45-32-150, 45-32-150, 45-32-150, 45-32-150, 45-32-150, 45-32-150, 45-32-150, 45-32-150, 45-32-150, 45-32-150, 45-32-150