This bill amends various sections of the Code of West Virginia concerning dog racing requirements, particularly focusing on the licensing process and operational standards for dog racetracks. Key changes include the removal of the minimum number of racing dates that applicants must meet to qualify for a dog racing license or to contract for telecasts and accept wagers. It mandates that a dog racetrack must hold a racing license to conduct simulcast racing, regardless of whether it continues to conduct live dog racing. Additionally, existing dog racetracks can operate video lottery and table games without conducting live racing, provided they notify the Racing Commission and pay a $1 million cessation fee to support greyhound adoption programs. The bill also allows the West Virginia Racing Commission to create rules for the licensure of racetracks that conduct only simulcast racing.

Moreover, the bill modifies the requirements for video lottery and table games licenses, allowing racetracks that held a valid dog racing license before January 1, 1994, to qualify for these licenses without maintaining an active dog racing license, as long as they continue to operate their original facility. It introduces financial obligations for licensees, including contributions to the General Fund and a special fund for employee pensions. The bill also emphasizes the importance of background checks for individuals controlling the applicant and allows those with disqualifying convictions to reapply after a specified period. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the licensing process and operational requirements for racetracks while ensuring compliance with state laws and regulations.

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