The bill amends the Horse Racing Law of 1995 in Michigan by updating definitions and provisions related to the horse racing industry. Key insertions include the definition of "eligible recipient," which refers to Michigan residents, and updates to terms such as "commissioner," "foreign substance," and "purse pool." The bill clarifies the role of the Michigan agriculture equine industry development fund, specifying that funds must be appropriated by the legislature and can only be used for agriculture and equine industry development programs. It also outlines the distribution of funds, increasing the percentage for breeders' awards from 10% to 20% of the gross purse for Michigan-bred standardbred harness horses, and introduces new provisions for the administration of funds to support the horse racing industry.

Additionally, the bill establishes a new framework for the equine industry research, planning, and development grant fund program, allocating 0.5% of the fund for research projects aimed at promoting the horse racing and breeding industry. It mandates that appropriated funds must not revert to the general fund and must be carried forward until disbursed. The bill also amends laws regarding simulcasting and pari-mutuel wagering, prohibiting race meeting licensees from simulcasting outside their licensed racetrack. Importantly, the bill will not take effect unless related legislation is enacted, ensuring that its provisions are contingent upon the passage of either Senate Bill No. ____ or House Bill No. 4346 of the 103rd Legislature.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 431.302, 431.320