It is extremely important that we all attend the Florida Thoroughbred Farm Managers’ meeting on Tuesday at Golden Hills Country Club in Ocala, where Florida House Speaker Larry Cretul, R-Ocala, will speak about the pari-mutuel bill that is to be voted on during the March legislative session. We need to show our appreciation for his efforts and understanding of our issues. Space is limited, so call (352) 401-3535 for reservations.
Cretul recently paid another visit to the FTBOA offices to discuss the upcoming legislative session with FTBOA President Gil Campbell, OBS President Mike O’Farrell and FTBOA Executive Vice President Richard Hancock. The speaker discussed the uncoupling of S 788 from the Compact with the Seminole Tribe of Florida, the possibility of a new and improved compact with the Seminole Tribe of Florida and possible expansions of gaming during the session. Uncoupling S 788 from the Compact, as one House committee has already done, would allow our breeder flexibility legislation to become law. It would also allow the tax reduction on slot machines in South Florida to begin. Finally, it would allow for a quarter-horse permit in our area to be converted to a thoroughbred permit.
“During his visit, Speaker Cretul demonstrated a clear understanding of the thoroughbred breeding and racing industry,” Campbell said. “He left us with little doubt that he has the best interests of our very important breeding and training businesses on the top of his legislative agenda. We thank Speaker Cretul for his past efforts and his continued leadership on these very complicated gaming issues.”
