Bill > S242

This bill amends Chapter 128 of the General Laws to strengthen the Massachusetts Thoroughbred Breeding Program, managed by the Massachusetts Thoroughbred Breeders Association (MTBA). The MTBA will now set specific percentages for cash prizes awarded to breeders of Massachusetts-bred Thoroughbred horses based on their performance in North American races, as well as prizes for the owners of stallions and the owners of the winning horses. The bill also authorizes the MTBA to create races exclusively for Massachusetts-bred Thoroughbreds, which can be betting or non-betting events, and to determine the purse amounts, which can supplement or be the sole prize. To be eligible for these prizes, individuals must be MTBA members or pay an annual fee, and specific breeding and residency requirements must be met, including that the foal be registered with the Jockey Club and MTBA, and that the mare either dropped the foal in the Commonwealth after being bred to a registered Massachusetts stallion, or that a resident mare remained in the Commonwealth for a specified period before and after foaling. Stallions and mares are subject to inspection to verify their residency status, and the MTBA can use up to 12 percent of program funds for advertising, marketing, promotion, and administration, including incentives for broodmare and stallion owners. The state auditor will conduct an annual audit of the MTBA's books to ensure compliance.