FTBOA PRESS RELEASE

OCALA, FL—The Florida Legislature’s 2026 regular session concluded today, with decoupling legislation again failing to reach the Governor’s desk. HB881 passed the House but companion bill SB1564 never received a hearing in the Senate.

A special session is expected to finalize the state budget. The FTBOA will remain vigilant throughout any extended proceedings.

Lonny Powell, CEO of the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association, issued the following statement:

“Decoupling has stalled again. Once more, the FTBOA and our industry partners defended Florida’s Thoroughbred industry. We thank the industry partners who stood united against this legislation, the 34 House members who voted ‘no,’ and the Senate for declining to advance SB1564.

“It’s become evident through the 2025 and 2026 legislative sessions that Florida needs a global gaming solution designed by Floridians, for Floridians. That will require alignment among the House, Senate, Governor and the Seminole Tribe, whose Gaming Compact represents a model of good-faith partnership with the State.

“Piecemeal attempts like repeated decoupling bills, and any effort to push the edges of the Tribal Gaming Compact or current law, will not lead to viable solutions for our industry or for the State.

“As the Legislature reconvenes for budget matters, we will remain vigilant against any effort to weaken Florida’s $3.2 billion Thoroughbred industry. We look forward to continuing our work with Florida’s leaders and stakeholders on solutions that preserve, stabilize and grow this signature agricultural industry on a go-forward basis.”

Return to the March 13 issue of Wire to Wire