HF2615: Horse Racing Seasons

Requires that thoroughbred and quarter horse racing seasons be conducted as separate, non-overlapping meets, with exceptions only if there is mutual written agreement among relevant horse owners' associations and the racetrack licensee in Polk County. It strikes prior language and adds new statutory requirements to clarify and enforce the independence of racing seasons for each breed, while allowing for mixed meets only by mutual consent. The bill also includes legislative findings addressing a recent interpretation by the state racing and gaming commission.

Key Points & Impacts

• Strikes previous provision that allowed thoroughbred and quarter horse racing seasons to be run independently unless mutually agreed upon by relevant associations and the Polk County racetrack licensee.

• Adds new section mandating that thoroughbred and quarter horse racing seasons be conducted as separate, stand-alone meets that do not overlap, except by mutual written agreement.

• Prohibits races for both breeds from being scheduled or conducted on the same calendar day, unless there is a written agreement among the involved parties.

• Prevents the racing season for one breed from commencing before the other breed's season has concluded, unless there is mutual written agreement.

• Defines a 'mixed meet' as overlapping or concurrent periods of racing for both breeds, which can only occur by mutual written agreement.

• Requires that any arrangement for mixed meets be documented in writing by the thoroughbred and quarter horse owners' associations and the Polk County racetrack licensee.

• Addresses and overrides a recent state racing and gaming commission interpretation that suggested such races could be held on the same day without mutual agreement, reaffirming legislative intent for independent racing seasons.

• Provides legislative findings clarifying the intent and application of these requirements.

Signed by Governor May 19, 2026. Takes effect July 1, 2026.