TRI

Excerpts from TRI senior advisor Damon Thayer’s conversation with Steve Byk on At The Races with Steve Byk satellite radio show Monday, May 5:

We have been informed that the decoupling issue is going nowhere in the Florida Legislature’s current session. We want to thank Senators Danny Burgess, Jason Brodeur, Stan McClain and others for taking the time to listen to our coalition, our concerns and the historical context where gaming licenses were forged from a partnership between racetracks and the horsemen.

In a pivotal development for Florida’s horse racing industry, Governor Ron DeSantis has publicly opposed proposed decoupling legislation that would allow Gulfstream Park to operate its casino without hosting live horse races. Speaking at the Ocala Breeders’ Sales (OBS) April sale, DeSantis emphasized his commitment to protecting Florida’s signature industries, stating he would not favor legislation that could harm them.

The Florida House of Representatives is scheduled to debate a decoupling bill next week that would allow Gulfstream Park to cease live horse racing while retaining its casino operations. This legislative move proceeds despite Governor Ron DeSantis’ expressed opposition, citing concerns over potential harm to Florida’s horse racing industry. The bill’s advancement has sparked significant debate among stakeholders, with proponents arguing for business flexibility and opponents warning of detrimental impacts on the state’s equine sector.

On April 15, 2025, the Florida House Commerce Committee voted 17-9 to advance a bill permitting Gulfstream Park to cease live racing after July 1, 2030, while maintaining its casino operations. The legislation includes provisions requiring a three-year notice before ending live racing and allows for the transfer of racing licenses to other entities. The bill’s advancement came shortly after a Senate committee postponed its own hearing on similar legislation, a move seen by opponents as an opportunity to rally support against the measure. Critics argue that the bill threatens Florida’s horse racing industry and undermines voter-approved measures linking casino licenses to live racing. Supporters contend it offers flexibility to private businesses. The bill now awaits further consideration in the full House.

The Florida House Commerce Committee approved an amended bill (HB 1467) that includes provisions for decoupling, allowing Gulfstream Park to cease live racing after July 1, 2030, while maintaining its casino operations. The amendment requires thoroughbred permitholders to provide notice before ending live racing and to continue offering a full schedule during the notice period. The bill passed with a 17-9 vote, with some representatives expressing concerns about overturning voter-approved measures linking slot machines to live racing.

In a surprise visit to the Ocala Breeders’ Sales (OBS) Spring Sale on April 17, 2025, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis publicly expressed his opposition to proposed decoupling legislation that would allow casinos to operate without live horse racing. Addressing attendees, DeSantis emphasized his commitment to protecting Florida’s signature industries, stating he would not favor legislation that could harm them. His remarks were met with enthusiasm from industry stakeholders, who view his support as a significant boost in their efforts to preserve the state’s thoroughbred racing heritage.

In a recent statement, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis expressed his support for the state’s horse racing industry amid ongoing debates over proposed decoupling legislation. The legislation, if passed, would allow casinos to operate without the requirement of hosting live horse racing events. Governor DeSantis emphasized the importance of the horse racing industry to Florida’s economy and cultural heritage, aligning himself with horsemen and industry stakeholders who oppose the decoupling measures.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis recently visited the Ocala Breeders’ Sales (OBS) Spring Sale to express his strong support for the state’s horse racing industry. During his visit, he voiced opposition to proposed decoupling legislation that would allow casinos to operate without live horse racing, emphasizing the potential harm such measures could inflict on Florida’s equine sector. DeSantis highlighted the industry’s significant economic and cultural contributions to the state, providing reassurance to stakeholders concerned about the future of thoroughbred racing in Florida.

In a recent visit to the Ocala Breeders’ Sales Spring Sale, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis expressed strong opposition to proposed decoupling legislation that would allow casinos to operate without live horse racing. DeSantis emphasized that such measures could harm Florida’s horse racing industry, which contributes significantly to the state’s economy and culture. His stance has provided hope to horsemen and industry stakeholders who fear that decoupling could lead to job losses and the decline of a historic industry.