BY BROCK SHERIDAN
Florida House Bill 105, a bill that removes the requirement for Thoroughbred permitholders in the state to conduct live racing, passed through the Industries and Professional Activities Subcommittee Wednesday in the Florida House of Representatives. In a vote of 12 to 4 in favor, the bill moves a step closer to allowing Gulfstream Park in Hallandale Beach to decouple live racing from their casino operation.
In addition to the bill passing through the subcommittee, an amendment was added to the bill that allows Tampa Bay Downs to decouple their live Thoroughbred racing from their cardroom operation.
The bill, sponsored by Rep. Adam Anderson R-Palm Harbor, saw vocal opposition from Lonny Powell, CEO of the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association, who testified at the hearing.
“Florida Thoroughbreds dominate racetracks nationwide, showcasing world-class excellence,” Powell said. “Yet HB 105 would undermine this success and the Legislature’s stated commitment to a beloved, thriving industry. We urge lawmakers to oppose this measure and protect the jobs, families and traditions that make Florida a leader in the equine world.”
Jena Antonucci, who in 2023 became the first woman to train a Triple Crown winner when she saddled Arcangelo to victory in the Belmont Stakes, also testified in opposition to the bill as did Tampa Bay HBPA vice president Jan Meehan.
Further opposition of the bill has come from the Tampa Bay Downs HBPA; the Florida Horsemen’s Association, who represent horsemen in South Florida; and several other horsemen’s groups nationwide including the National Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, the New York Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association and the Kentucky Thoroughbred Association.
The NHBPA started a petition drive in opposition of HB 105 in late January and those wishing to sign the petition can click here.
Following the hearing Powell further said:
“Thoroughbred racing isn’t just a sport in Florida—it’s a way of life, deeply embedded in our state’s history and agricultural heritage. The misguided effort to decouple racing in favor of slot machine and cardroom casinos threatens the heart of our state’s $3.24 billion, and growing, Thoroughbred industry. HB 105 undermines a legacy built by multi-generational farms, expert trainers, passionate owners and the small businesses that keep our communities thriving.
“The Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association stands in firm opposition to this bill, and we greatly appreciate the Tampa Bay Downs Horsemen and Belmont-winning trainer Jena Antonucci for standing with us in today’s committee hearing. We urge lawmakers to oppose this bill and protect the jobs, families, and traditions that make Florida a leader in the equine world.”
Return to the February 5 issue of Wire to Wire
