Subject of Possible Rule Making: To establish a new chapter to regulate handicapping contests involving the outcome of multiple horse races.

     Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 67.16.020.

     Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: SSB 5953 passed the state legislature and was signed by the governor to allow for handicapping contests. Section 2 of this bill requires the commission to establish rules for the conduct of handicapping contests involving the outcome of multiple horse races.

     Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: None.

     Process for Developing New Rule:       Negotiated rule making.

     Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Robert J. Lopez, Administrative Services Manager, Washington Horse Racing Commission, 6326 Martin Way, Suite 209, Olympia, WA 98516-5578, phone (360) 459-6462, fax (360) 459-6461, rlopez@whrc.state.wa.us.

May 18, 2005

R. M. Leichner

Executive Secretary