Gov. Beshear Holds Ceremonial Bill Signing for Interstate Racing Compact Legislation

Press Release

Gov. Steve Beshear today ceremonially signed into law SB 24, the Interstate Racing and Wagering Compact legislation sponsored by Sen. Damon Thayer, of Georgetown. The new law allows Kentucky to join other states that conduct pari-mutuel wagering and racing to adopt and implement uniform rules and regulations governing the sport.

Currently, 38 states offer pari-mutuel wagering and racing and participants in the industry are often subject to inconsistent rules and penalties that vary from state to state.

"The Racing and Wagering Compact will give those in the industry a much more consistent avenue in which to operate," said Gov. Beshear. "I encourage other states that are considering this important legislation to act now in order to streamline what has become a burdensome process for owners, trainers, veterinarians and others who must look at many variations of the laws that govern their industry in order to come to work each day. I am very pleased that Kentucky is among the first to acknowledge the importance of this compact. I would especially like to acknowledge Rep. Susan Westrom and Rep. Larry Clark for their hard work and contributions to this effort."

The compact will ensure that each state maintains control over how racing and wagering is regulated in their individual state. The compact does not replace state authority with federal control. Every proposed rule goes through a public comment period, and states must publish regulations in their respective administrative registers. The state racing commissions will still enforce the rules of racing in their respective jurisdiction. The compact requires a state's consent to a rule before it becomes applicable within that state's borders thus protecting the participating state's interests.

Kentucky Horse Racing Commission Executive Director Lisa Underwood has been on the national steering committee that produced the model legislation since its inception in September 2009.

"The compact will provide an efficient method for states to act together to adopt uniform rules. Industry stakeholders will have ample opportunities for input and deliberation. This will be beneficial to all of the participants in the industry," said Underwood.

The compact will become effective after the model bill has been adopted by six states. Kentucky is the first major racing jurisdiction to adopt the bill.

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