The bill CS/CS/HB 105 amends various sections of Florida Statutes concerning pari-mutuel wagering, particularly for thoroughbred permitholders. It allows these permitholders to opt out of conducting live racing while retaining their permits, with specific conditions for those operating slot machine facilities or cardrooms. Notably, they must continue live racing until they notify the commission, which cannot occur before July 1, 2027, and must indicate a cessation date at least three years in the future. The bill also eliminates the requirement for live racing in relation to certain tax obligations and introduces a new framework for breeders' incentives, mandating that funds for breeders' awards be used to promote Florida-bred horses.

Additionally, the bill establishes new provisions for the management of thoroughbred racing and breeding, including the eligibility of offspring sired by stallions returning to Florida for stallion awards. It modifies the funding structure for thoroughbred race purses, requiring permitholders to certify race winner information to the commission. The bill also streamlines the regulatory framework for thoroughbred training centers and repeals certain existing laws related to the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders' Association. Furthermore, it introduces a grant program for the recruitment of thoroughbred stallions and mares, allocating $5 million for various initiatives, and revises licensing requirements for cardroom operations, enhancing flexibility in fund distribution for breeders' awards and stallion awards. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 105 Filed: 550.01215
H 105 c1: 550.01215, 849.086
H 105 c2: 550.01215, 550.0951, 550.26165, 550.625, 550.0351, 550.2614, 550.2633, 550.26352