Bill > S2409

This bill: - Establishes the state racing board within the Massachusetts Gaming Commission to administer and enforce appeals related to pari-mutuel wagering and simulcasting, as well as to oversee live racing, pari-mutuel wagering, and simulcasting under chapters 23K¼ and 23K½. - Creates the Race Horse Development Fund to distribute funds to licensed racetracks for purses, breeding programs, and health/pension benefits for horsemen. - Establishes the Thoroughbred Horse Capital Improvements Trust Fund and the Standardbred Horse Capital Improvements Trust Fund to provide funding for capital improvements at licensed racetracks. - Authorizes the state racing board to license advance deposit wagering hub operators to conduct account wagering, with a 5% source market fee on wagers by Massachusetts residents. - Provides transition provisions for certain existing racing licensees, including allowing the harness racing licensee in Norfolk County to continue operations without being subject to certain new requirements. - Repeals various laws related to horse and dog racing, simulcasting, and wagering, effective July 31, 2024, after review by the state racing board. The bill aims to revitalize the horse racing industry in Massachusetts by restructuring oversight, funding, and operational provisions for racetracks and wagering.