The bill amends several sections of Florida Statutes related to pari-mutuel wagering, primarily focusing on the operations of permitholders. It allows certain permitholders, including thoroughbred, jai alai, harness horse racing, and quarter horse racing permitholders, to opt out of conducting live racing or games without losing their permits. Additionally, it exempts these permitholders from specific tax obligations and requires them to provide notice to the Florida Gaming Control Commission if they choose to stop live racing, with stipulations on the timing and conditions of such notice. The bill also revises the process for transferring thoroughbred racing permits, removing the requirement for referendums and allowing for more flexibility in relocating permits.

Further amendments include the removal of the requirement for certain permits to escheat to the state due to nonpayment of taxes, and changes to the leasing of pari-mutuel facilities, which now allows for broader leasing options among permitholders. The bill also clarifies that thoroughbred permitholders relocating under specific statutes cannot operate cardrooms at leased training centers. Overall, the legislation aims to modernize and streamline the regulatory framework governing pari-mutuel wagering in Florida, with an effective date set for July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 881 Filed: 550.09515, 550.3345, 550.475, 550.5251, 550.6335