5762-S.E AMH WOOA PITT 74

ESSB 5762 - H AMD TO H COMM AMD (5762-S.E. AMH TED H3041.1)500

By Representative Wood                        WITHDRAWN 4-9-97

     On page 7, after line 39, insert the following:

A(9)(a) By authorizing the commission to permit simulcast wagering by a class 1 racing association, this section is intended to increase fan attendance at class 1 racing facilities and to provide an additional source of parimutuel receipts for the horsemen=s purse account.  The success of the equine breeding and racing industry in the state depends, at least in part, upon simulcast wagering.  Therefore, a further purpose of this section is to promote and maintain class 1 racing facilities in the state.

(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsections (4), (5), or (6) of this section, the commission may not authorize or permit a class 1 racing association to transmit simulcast of live horse racing conducted at its racetrack to locations within the state, or to import simulcast of horse races from out-of-state racing facilities, unless at least two class 1 racing facilities are licensed and operational in the state of Washington.@

EFFECT:  States that purpose of simulcast wagering is to increase fan attendance at class 1 racing facilities.  Only allows transmission of facilities live race from the track or import of simulcast from out-of-state races if two class 1 facilities are licensed/operational in the state.  Currently there are three class 1 racing facilities in the state.