This bill amends various sections of the Code of West Virginia concerning horse racing, particularly focusing on the definition and requirements for "West Virginia Certified Thoroughbred" horses. It establishes criteria for certification, including registration with the West Virginia Thoroughbred Breeders Association and a minimum residency requirement of six consecutive months in the state before the horse's three-year-old year. The bill also increases the funding cap for restricted races at thoroughbred racetracks that did not participate in the West Virginia Development Fund prior to 1992. Additionally, it outlines the distribution of net terminal income at licensed racetracks, mandating specific allocations for the Racing Commission General Administrative Account and purse funds.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new provisions for the distribution of funds related to thoroughbred racing, including a cap on sire owners' earnings and the establishment of a restricted purse supplement award for owners of accredited thoroughbred horses. It mandates that each pari-mutuel thoroughbred horse track must conduct at least one restricted race per racing day, with funding sourced from the general purse fund. Effective May 1, 2026, West Virginia Certified thoroughbred horses will be eligible for these restricted races. The bill also allocates a portion of net terminal income to the West Virginia Thoroughbred Development Fund and the West Virginia Greyhound Breeding Development Fund, while adjusting existing provisions for the distribution of excess net terminal income. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the financial sustainability and support for West Virginia's thoroughbred and greyhound racing industries.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 19-23-3, 19-23-12c, 19-23-13b, 29-22A-10, 29-22A-10b