Bill > A00822

This bill creates a new "Responsible Retirement of Racehorses Fund" to support the retirement and care of retired racehorses in New York State. The fund will be established in the custody of the state's tax and finance commissioner and will be financed through multiple revenue streams, including a half-percent contribution from video lottery gaming revenues, a half-percent contribution from race purses, five percent of the New York State thoroughbred breeding and development fund's annual revenue, and ten percent of certain horse breeding development fund fees. The fund will specifically support horse retirement and rescue programs that are approved by the commissioner of agriculture and markets, with strict eligibility criteria requiring these programs to be non-profit, tax-exempt organizations that demonstrate economic sustainability, long-term stability, and a commitment to proper horse care. The bill also directs the establishment of a horse registration fee, with the proceeds going directly into this fund. The definition of "racehorse" is broadly defined to include horses whose racing career has ended or horses bred to race but never competed. The act will take effect 120 days after becoming law, providing time for implementation of the new funding mechanism and program guidelines.

Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A822