The proposed bill, if enacted, would introduce several updates to current statutes regarding amusements, specifically in the context of the Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) and commercial racing permittees. It would require the ADG to establish and collect a new regulatory assessment of 0.5 percent on amounts wagered from both in-state and out-of-state live and simulcast races, in addition to existing deductions authorized under current law. This new requirement is aimed at generating additional revenue for the state budget for fiscal year 2025-2026.
Furthermore, the bill would allow the ADG to grant gate approval for all tested horses within 60 days of the race for the years 2025 and 2026, and it mandates the amendment of the administrative code to reflect this change. However, this provision would be repealed after December 31, 2026. Overall, the bill seeks to streamline regulatory processes and enhance revenue collection in the racing sector while ensuring that these changes are temporary and subject to review after the specified period.