Press Releases

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.

Governor Ron DeSantis visited the Ocala Breeders’ Sale auction grounds Thursday morning (April 17), saying to the applause of horsemen: “I understand the importance of the industry to the state, not just in terms of the economy, which it is important…. But the culture and way of life, and things that people have known for many generations. So we’ll be looking at what ends up being produced in the Florida legislature. But you can count me as one who will not look favorably on legislation that is going to decimate (an industry).”

Governor Ron DeSantis strongly opposed decoupling legislation that would allow Gulfstream Park to operate without live racing, calling it harmful to Florida’s horse industry and beneficial only to a single special interest. He emphasized his commitment to protecting Florida jobs and traditions, earning praise from industry leaders.

Comments from TRI Senior Advisor Damon Thayer after the Florida House of Representatives’ Commerce Committee today voted 17-9 to approve HB 1467, which was amended to attach decoupling to an existing but separate gambling bill from HB 105 (the original decoupling bill). TRI representatives were prepared to testify before the Florida Senate’s Appropriations Committee on Agriculture, Environment & General Government this afternoon. However, Committee Chairman Jason Brodeur announced that the committee would delay hearing SB 408.

In a compelling column for the Tampa Bay Times, Jessica Steinbrenner, daughter of the late George Steinbrenner, expresses deep concern over proposed legislation in Florida that seeks to decouple live horse racing from casino gaming operations. Drawing from her family’s 55-year legacy in the thoroughbred industry through Kinsman Farm in Ocala, she emphasizes the profound impact such legislation would have on the state’s equine community.

The Florida Legislature is deliberating a significant change to the state’s horse racing industry through proposed legislation that would allow Gulfstream Park in Hallandale Beach to operate its casino without the requirement to conduct live horse races. This move, known as “decoupling,” is part of a broader effort to modernize Florida’s gambling laws.