The bill amends various sections of Washington's horse racing laws, focusing on definitions, licensing, and financial regulations related to horse racing and parimutuel wagering. Key changes include clarifying terms such as "commission," "parimutuel machine," and introducing a definition for "parimutuel wagering." The composition and appointment process of the Washington horse racing commission is modified by removing the requirement for one commissioner to be a breeder of racehorses. Additionally, the licensing process for race meets is updated to specify the number of live races required and adjust associated fees. Financial provisions are revised, including new thresholds for percentages withheld from gross receipts of parimutuel machines, and the bill allows for the distribution of unspent funds to equestrian nonprofit organizations while establishing a bonus fund for Washington bred horses.

Moreover, the bill introduces provisions for class 1 racing associations to conduct parimutuel wagering at satellite locations, with limitations on the number of locations per county and distance from existing facilities. It clarifies the commission's authority to approve these satellite locations and outlines requirements for combining parimutuel pools. The bill also increases the annual spending limit for the Washington horse racing commission's operating account from $300,000 to $500,000, aimed at developing the equine industry and supporting equine health research. Additionally, it expands the definition of eligible entities to include licensed advanced deposit wagering companies for conducting horse race handicapping contests, ultimately enhancing the economic viability of the horse racing industry in Washington while ensuring regulatory compliance.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 67.16.010, 67.16.012, 67.16.050, 67.16.070, 67.16.100, 67.16.101, 67.16.102, 67.16.105, 67.16.140, 67.16.160, 67.16.170, 67.16.175, 67.16.251, 67.16.280
Bill as Passed Legislature: 67.16.010, 67.16.012, 67.16.050, 67.16.070, 67.16.100, 67.16.101, 67.16.102, 67.16.105, 67.16.140, 67.16.160, 67.16.170, 67.16.175, 67.16.251, 67.16.280
Session Law: 67.16.010, 67.16.012, 67.16.050, 67.16.070, 67.16.100, 67.16.101, 67.16.102, 67.16.105, 67.16.140, 67.16.160, 67.16.170, 67.16.175, 67.16.251, 67.16.280