Bill > SB576

This bill authorizes fixed odds wagering on horse and dog racing in West Virginia, creating two new special revenue accounts in the state treasury to support racing purses. The bill establishes detailed rules for how fixed odds wagering will be conducted, including that it can only be done by licensed operators and must comply with existing interstate racing regulations. For both horse and dog racing, 10% of the adjusted gross wagering receipts will be collected, with 25% of those funds going into a new Purse Supplement Fund and 25% distributed equally among licensed racetracks. The funds can be used to support racetrack operations and capital improvements. The bill also prohibits certain individuals from placing wagers, specifically racing officials, owners, trainers, jockeys, and their employees who are participating in the race on which they want to bet. The West Virginia Lottery Commission will be responsible for regulating these new wagering activities, including developing rules for acceptance of wagers, protection of patrons, and responsible gaming practices. The new provisions will take effect 90 days after passage, providing a structured framework for expanding sports betting to include fixed odds racing in the state.

Budget and Finance

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=576&year=2025&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill