The bill amends various sections of the Iowa Code to focus exclusively on horse racing and pari-mutuel wagering, effectively eliminating all references to dog racing. Key changes include the removal of terms related to dog racing from definitions and provisions, particularly in sections 99D.2, 99D.3, and 99D.4, which now pertain solely to horse racing. The bill clarifies that the pari-mutuel wagering system is applicable only to horse racing events and establishes that licenses for conducting racing will no longer include dog racing. Existing dog racetracks are allowed to maintain their licenses for gambling games and horse race wagering without the need for live dog racing performances, particularly in Dubuque and Pottawattamie counties.

Additionally, the bill introduces new regulations to enhance the integrity of horse racing, specifically addressing drugging and numbing practices. It prohibits such practices before races and reinforces the commission's authority to conduct tests to ensure compliance. The bill also specifies that breakage from the pari-mutuel pool will be distributed solely to breeders of Iowa-foaled horses, eliminating previous provisions related to Iowa-whelped dogs. Furthermore, it repeals sections concerning the dog racing promotion fund and civil penalties for animal shelters, while maintaining the tax on gross sums wagered at licensed dog racetracks. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 99D.2, 99D.4, 99D.5, 99D.6, 99D.8A, 99D.8, 422.3, 99F.6, 99D.9A, 99F.4A, 99D.9, 99D.22, 99D.14, 99D.9D, 99D.24, 99D.25, 99D.7, 725.14