Kentucky Horse Racing Commission to Transform into Independent Agency Called Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation

Transformation in the Horse Racing Industry

FRANKFORT, Ky. – As the anticipation for the Kentucky Derby is mounting, the horse racing industry appears to be entering a new era. A bill that seeks to reform the industry was passed by lawmakers, positioning Kentucky Horse Racing Commission to serve as an independent body overseeing different aspects of horse racing.

“Senate Bill 299 will combine all the three legal domains of gaming in Kentucky, under one roof – the Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation. This new structure is akin to the model employed by the Kentucky Lottery Corporation,” revealed Senator Damon Thayer, who strongly tabled the bill.

This move spells significant changes in the future of horse racing in Kentucky. “We aim to centralize para-mutual betting, sports betting, and charitable gaming under one managing board. This provides these critical industries with the autonomous and stable environment they need, clear from the volatility of political influences,” Senator Thayer added.

Introduction of Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation

Despite Governor Andy Beshear’s veto, the lawmakers scored a victory early this week by overturning his decision. Consequently, the Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation will run as an autonomous body, unfettered by political gamesmanship.

Senator Thayer further explained, “As we continue to delegate more and more responsibilities to the racing commission, and the need to employ more personnel grows, along with the increased flow of money, it becomes more prudent to have the commission operate independently, severing it from political subjugation.”

Stressing on the need for maintaining integrity, Thayer also pointed out that the board members have to be confirmed by the state senate and will be governed by the executive branch ethics commission.

Aiming for the Top Spot

Gearing to become the industry leader, the Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation aims for a higher level of integrity for the horse racing industry. “We are the horse capital of the world, hosting the finest year-round racing circuit and breeding operations in North America. And now, to safeguard our top spot and uphold integrity, this new level of scrutiny is essential,” elaborated Thayer.

Senate Bill 299 also intends to disband the state’s department of charitable gaming by next year. However, for now, the focus remains on the upcoming 150th Kentucky Derby, which is merely weeks away.

Thayer concluded expressing his excitement for the grand event, thereby underlining the significant evolutions taking place in the Kentucky horse racing industry.