Bill > HB5013

This bill aims to comprehensively eliminate greyhound racing in Texas by systematically removing references to greyhound racing from various state statutes. Specifically, the bill prohibits any form of live dog racing, including greyhound races, in the state and modifies numerous sections of the Occupations Code to remove provisions related to greyhound racing. Key provisions include adding a new section explicitly stating that dog racing is prohibited, reducing the Texas Racing Commission's composition from including a greyhound racing expert to focusing solely on horse racing, and removing regulatory language about greyhound racing from sections covering licensing, wagering, and race operations. The bill provides greyhound racetrack associations with an opportunity to convert their licenses to horse racing track licenses by September 1, 2030, and ensures that existing legal provisions related to greyhound racing will remain in effect for conduct that occurred before the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025. The legislation effectively phases out greyhound racing in Texas while maintaining the regulatory framework for horse racing, reflecting a shift in attitudes toward dog racing and animal welfare.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB5013