SENATE BILL REPORT
HB 1442
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of March 26, 2013
Title: An act relating to providing increased access to parimutuel satellite locations in counties with a population exceeding one million.
Brief Description: Providing increased access to parimutuel satellite locations in counties with a population exceeding one million.
Sponsors: Representatives Schmick, Cody, Hunt, Condotta, Blake and Sullivan.
Brief History: Passed House: 3/07/13, 97-0.
Committee Activity: Commerce & Labor: 3/20/13.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE & LABOR |
Staff: Mac Nicholson (786-7445)
Background: The Washington Horse Racing Commission (WHRC) regulates horse racing in Washington and licenses horse racing associations, racing facilities, and employees who participate in horse racing.
A licensed class 1 racing association may conduct parimutuel wagering at satellite locations, subject to certain restrictions. Satellite locations cannot be operated within 20 driving miles of any class 1 racing facility, and WHRC may only approve one satellite location per county.
A class 1 racing association is a licensee approved by WHRC to conduct at least 40 days of live racing per year.
Summary of Bill: WHRC may approve two satellite locations for parimutuel wagering in counties with a population exceeding 1 million.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: There can only be one satellite parimutuel wagering place per county; this would allow only King County to have an additional location. It is hard to get to Emerald Down; this would allow another satellite location for parimutuel wagering. This will help capture lost dollars from people who do not go to the track anymore because of congestion concerns. The locations for parimutuel wagering are subject to licensing and regulation by WHRC.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Representative Schmick, prime sponsor; Jim Halstrom, NW Racing Associates.