A Florida House subcommittee advanced a contentious bill, HB 881, that would allow thoroughbred racetracks like Tampa Bay Downs and Gulfstream Park to operate cardrooms and slot machines without the current requirement to host live horse races—a practice known as “decoupling.” Sponsored by Rep. Adam Anderson, the bill aims to modernize gambling regulations by removing the live racing mandate, which has already been lifted for former greyhound and harness racing tracks. Anderson emphasized safeguards in the bill to protect live racing, including delaying any cessation of races until at least 2027 and requiring continued operations for three years after notice.

Despite these assurances, the proposal has drawn strong opposition from Florida’s horse breeding and training community, particularly in the Ocala region, which fears the bill could devastate the equine industry and local agricultural jobs. Critics, including Rep. Yvonne Hinson and the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders and Owners Association, argue that decoupling threatens the long-term viability of live racing. While Tampa Bay Downs reportedly has no plans to stop racing, skepticism remains about Gulfstream Park’s future. The bill now moves to the House Commerce Committee, with a similar measure pending in the Senate.