Bill > HB4757

This bill makes comprehensive changes to Texas horse racing regulations and prohibits greyhound and dog racing in the state. The legislation creates a new Texas Equine Education and Research Council and escrow account, modifies eligibility requirements for Texas Racing Commission members, and removes all references to greyhound racing from existing statutes. Key provisions include establishing new definitions for occupational licenses, expanding the commission's ability to apply for grants, and creating a special escrow account for funding equine education and research. The bill prohibits greyhound racing as a live event in Texas, effectively ending the practice by September 1, 2025. It provides a pathway for greyhound racetracks to convert to horse racing facilities, with specific application requirements and a deadline of December 31, 2029, for facility conversion. The legislation also updates various technical aspects of horse racing regulation, such as license requirements, commission membership rules, and wagering oversight. Greyhound racetrack associations will have the opportunity to transfer existing purse funds and potentially convert their racing licenses to horse racing licenses under specific conditions.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4757