This bill amends the Horse Racing Act to establish a State Racing Commission Nominating Committee and outlines the process for selecting members of the State Racing Commission. The commission will consist of five members, appointed by the governor with the consent of the senate, from a list of qualified nominees provided by the newly created nominating committee. The committee will consist of nine members knowledgeable about horse racing, who are not affiliated with the commission or board, and will be responsible for submitting a list of nominees for commission vacancies. The bill also specifies that at least three commission members must be practical breeders of racehorses in New Mexico and sets forth the qualifications and terms for the executive director of the commission.

Additionally, the bill includes various amendments to existing definitions and powers of the commission, such as the ability to grant or deny licenses, conduct investigations, and oversee pari-mutuel wagering. It also introduces new qualifications for the executive director, requiring at least five years of supervisory experience in a governmental gaming regulatory agency and prohibiting any financial interest in racetracks or licensed wagering operations. The effective date for the provisions of this act is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 60-1A-2, 60-1A-3, 60-1A-4