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, specifying the number of live races required and adjusting 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 eligibility requirements for class 1 racing associations. The bill also increases the funding limit for the Washington horse racing commission from $300,000 to $500,000 per fiscal year to support the equine industry and equine health research. Additionally, it allows for horse race handicapping contests conducted by class 1 racing associations and licensed advanced deposit wagering companies, with the commission responsible for establishing the rules for these contests. Overall, the bill aims to modernize and enhance the regulatory framework for horse racing in Washington State while ensuring compliance and support for nonprofit race meets.

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