The proposed bill aims to enhance the regulation of horse racing in New Mexico by prohibiting "program training" and "program owning" of racehorses. It defines a "program owner" as a licensed owner identified in the official race program as the owner of a horse that is actually owned by another person, and a "program trainer" as a licensed trainer identified in the official race program as the trainer of a horse that is actually under the control of another person. The bill grants the State Racing Commission the authority to refuse to issue, suspend, or revoke the license of any individual found to have engaged in these practices, which are deemed to threaten the effective regulation and control of horse racing.

Additionally, the bill amends existing licensing standards to include provisions that allow the commission to take disciplinary measures against individuals involved in schemes related to program owners or trainers. This includes the ability to impose fines and other penalties, thereby reinforcing the integrity of horse racing in the state. The amendments also clarify the commission's authority to deny or revoke licenses based on the involvement in such schemes, ensuring that the horse racing industry operates fairly and transparently.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 60-1A-2