The bill amends the Code of Alabama 1975 to enhance the operational and financial framework of the Greene County Racing Commission. Key changes include an increase in annual compensation for commission members, which will now be determined by the local legislative delegation instead of a fixed amount, and a new residency requirement mandating that members must have lived in Alabama for at least five years prior to their appointment. The bill also removes previous restrictions on the number of racing days authorized, allowing for greater flexibility in scheduling. Additionally, it introduces new duties for commission members, such as requiring at least one member to be present or on call during each 24-hour pari-mutuel day, and repeals sections related to license suspension and manipulation of racing outcomes to streamline regulatory processes.

Further amendments include significant changes to licensing and operational regulations for racetracks and pari-mutuel wagering, such as increasing the maximum annual license fee from $1,000 to $25,000 and making licenses non-transferable. The commission is limited to issuing a maximum of two licenses, and renewal applications must demonstrate compliance with eligibility criteria. The bill also establishes a new tax structure for pari-mutuel wagering, with specific allocations for various entities, including increased funding for the Greene County Hospital Board and new allocations for fire departments and health departments. Overall, the bill aims to modernize the commission's operations, enhance regulatory oversight, and ensure compliance with state laws governing racing and wagering activities.

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