TRI

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.

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 Thoroughbred Racing Initiative — an industry collaboration created to fight for live horse racing in Florida and elsewhere in the United States — officially launched today.

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:

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:

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.