A broad coalition of horse racing and gaming enthusiasts from across Arizona are working with Legislators to advance legislation to modernize gaming in the state.
Senate Bill 1794, introduced by Sen. David Gowan, would authorize historic horse racing and stands to generate up to $140 million in new tax revenues, while also providing desperately needed support for the state's horse racing industry and supporting local businesses. The bill is set to be heard in a Senate committee on Tuesday.
Horse racing has been a key economic driver in Arizona for decades – creating thousands of jobs, supporting hundreds of local businesses and generating millions of dollars in state and local tax revenues. But since 2004, Arizona has seen parimutuel handles drop by $55 million a year, purses drop by $5 million a year and live racing attendance has dropped 45 percent.
Senate Bill 1794 would modernize Arizona wagering laws, while limiting the number of HHR terminals to just 15% of tribal gaming positions – minimizing any impact on those revenues. HHR also relies on parimutuel wagering, which was legal in Arizona before tribal gaming compacts began, so their authorization would not violate those state agreements.
“The modernization effort led by Senator Gowan will save the horse racing industry in Arizona and help keep horsemen in our state,” said Bob Hutton, President of the Arizona Horseman's Benevolent & Protective Association. “Implementing historic horse racing will provide much-needed support to the various industry partners that are involved in each race day, attract high quality horses, and revitalize the horse racing experience throughout Arizona.”
If passed, the measure would generate between $100 million and $140 million in new state tax revenues, create 4,000 new jobs and lead to more than $300 million in capital investments in Arizona Downs, a shuttered horse racing track north of Phoenix. In addition, daily purses would increase from $80,000 to $300,000, positioning Arizona to be an industry leader on the west coast.
“By modernizing Arizona's horse racing industry, we are well-positioned to become the premier destination for horse racing on the West Coast,” Sen. Gowan said. “Arizona has an ideal climate for hosting year-round horse races and attracting fans, horses, breeders, trainers and others looking to escape the hostile environment in California.”
Historic Horse Racing allows players to bet on previously run horse races. Gameplay begins when the player deposits a wager and then picks the winners of three randomly chosen races in the projected order of finish. Identifying information including the location, date, and names of the horses and jockeys are not shown, but the player can view handicapping information like the jockeys' and trainers' win percentage. After the wager is placed, the player can watch an animated re-enactment of the selected past race results.
To learn more about the legislative efforts, visit www.savearizonahorseracing.com.
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