This bill proposes significant amendments to the Code of West Virginia regarding dog racing and related gaming operations. Key changes include the elimination of the minimum number of racing dates required for applicants to qualify for a dog racing license or to contract for telecasts and wagers. It mandates that dog racetracks must hold a racing license to conduct simulcast racing, regardless of whether they continue live dog racing. The West Virginia Racing Commission is authorized to create rules for the licensure of racetracks that conduct only simulcast racing. Additionally, the bill allows racetracks to operate video lottery and table games in locations where live racing was previously held, and it removes the requirement for racetrack table games licensees to race a minimum number of dates.

Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions for licensees licensed before January 1, 1994, allowing them to maintain their licenses without conducting live racing, provided they notify the Racing Commission and pay a $1 million cessation fee to support the care and adoption of retired greyhounds. It also clarifies that no racetrack can receive telecasts and accept wagers in more than one location and outlines the financial obligations of licensees, including tax payments and contributions to employee pension plans. The bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining integrity in the industry by detailing the application process for video lottery licenses, including financing disclosures and the qualifications of applicants, particularly concerning prior criminal convictions. Overall, the legislation aims to modernize and streamline the regulatory framework for dog racing and gaming in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 19-23-3, 19-23-7, 19-23-12b, 29-22A-3, 29-22A-7, 29-22A-1229, 29-22C-8, 29-22C-10