Bill > H279

This bill extends the license for a running horse racing meeting licensee in Suffolk County, allowing them to continue operating under their existing license until July 31, 2016, even if they don't conduct live racing during certain periods, provided that specific days are designated as "dark days" where no racing occurs. The licensee can still apply for a live racing license for 2015, and the Massachusetts Gaming Commission can approve this application even if it doesn't meet all standard requirements. Importantly, the licensee will not be required to hold live races to maintain their authorization for simulcast wagering, which involves broadcasting races from other locations for betting purposes, as long as these simulcasts comply with federal law, specifically the Interstate Horse Racing Act of 1978, and generally require approval from the New England Horsemen’s Benevolent & Protective Association unless specific exceptions apply. Additionally, the bill amends a section of law related to simulcast wagering to change a percentage from 4% to 0.5%, though these changes are set to be repealed later.