The bill amends the Kansas parimutuel racing act by updating definitions and licensing requirements for racetrack facilities and organizations involved in horse and greyhound racing. Notably, it removes references to specific racetracks, Eureka Downs and Anthony Downs, from the definitions of "horsemen's association" and "horsemen's nonprofit organization." The bill introduces new provisions for facility owner and manager licenses, allowing applicants to construct or manage racetrack facilities with a maximum license duration of 25 years and a nonrefundable application fee of $5,000. It also establishes a deposit requirement based on the number of racing days applied for and emphasizes simplified licensing procedures for fair associations and horsemen's nonprofit organizations.

Additionally, the bill outlines criteria for denying licenses, including evidence of prior suspensions, criminal convictions related to race fixing or gambling violations, and failure to demonstrate financial responsibility. It mandates annual reviews of facility owner and manager licenses by the commission, which will require a certified financial audit. The bill also creates a framework for distributing funds from the state racing fund and establishes the Kansas horse breeding development fund, detailing the allocation of funds for various purposes, including purse supplements and equine research. Furthermore, it proposes the repeal of several sections of the Kansas Statutes Annotated to streamline existing laws and ensures immediate effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 74-8802, 74-8814, 74-8813, 74-8826, 74-8829, 74-8838
As Amended by Senate Committee: 74-8802, 74-8814, 74-8813, 74-8815, 74-8826, 74-8829, 74-8838