The bill amends the Horse Racing Law of 1995 in Michigan by updating definitions and provisions related to the horse racing industry. Notable insertions include the definition of "eligible recipient," which outlines the criteria for individuals and entities that can receive support, and the creation of the Michigan agriculture equine industry development fund, to be managed by the director of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. The bill also introduces annual indexing for financial allocations, ensuring that funding for horse racing programs adjusts with inflation. It establishes minimum funding levels for standardbred harness horse race purses and purse supplements for special races, while emphasizing the importance of supporting fair programs and the health and safety of horses.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing laws to designate county fairs for harness races when licensed meetings are unavailable and clarifies the definition of "Michigan-sired standardbred horses." It introduces new eligibility criteria for foals conceived outside the state and outlines financial allocations for thoroughbred programs, including indexed purse supplements and awards for owners and breeders of Michigan-sired horses. The bill removes references to quarter horse, Appaloosa, Arabian, and American paint horse programs, focusing on thoroughbred racing. It also establishes a framework for funding equine industry research and development, ensuring that funds are used for beneficial projects while maintaining the integrity of the Michigan agriculture equine industry development fund.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 431.302, 431.320