The bill CS/CS/HB 105 amends several 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, with a minimum notice period extending to July 1, 2027. The bill also removes 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 allocation of funds for thoroughbred races, including the funding of purses from pari-mutuel pools and the eligibility of offspring sired by stallions returning to Florida for stallion awards. It also revises licensing requirements for slot machine gaming, eliminating the need for thoroughbred permitholders to conduct a full schedule of live racing. The legislation aims to modernize the regulatory framework for thoroughbred racing and breeding in Florida, ensuring a more efficient environment for industry stakeholders, while repealing outdated regulations and establishing guidelines for the distribution of funds and operational oversight. 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