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.

The bill also introduces provisions for class 1 racing associations, permitting them to conduct parimutuel wagering at satellite locations after completing at least one full live racing season and maintaining an annual live race meet. The commission is empowered to approve these satellite locations, with restrictions on their proximity to existing facilities, and parimutuel pools from these locations will be combined with those from the main facility for odds and payoffs. Furthermore, the definition of class 1 racing associations is expanded to include licensed advanced deposit wagering companies, and the bill increases the maximum expenditure from the Washington horse racing commission operating account from $300,000 to $500,000 per fiscal year for the development of the equine industry. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the regulatory framework for horse racing in Washington, supporting the industry and its stakeholders.

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