Florida’s decoupling legislation, which would remove the requirement for Gulfstream Park to run live Thoroughbred races in order to operate its casino, advanced in a House subcommittee. The bill would also apply similar terms to cardroom gaming license-holders, potentially allowing Tampa Bay Downs to cease racing if the bill becomes law. The House Industries & Professional Activities Subcommittee reported HB 105 as favorable by a 12-4 vote.

Gulfstream Park’s owner, The Stronach Group, has warned that without the decoupling bill, there is no guarantee of continued racing at the track. The bill sponsor, Rep. Adam Anderson, claims that decoupling would actually support the Thoroughbred industry by giving tracks the tools to make better business decisions. However, opponents argue that the bill would lead to an end of racing and devastate the state’s horse-breeding industry.

Representatives of both tracks testified in support of the bill, with Gulfstream lobbyist Jeff Johnston stating that the track has plans to hold races in the future. However, opponents, including Lonny Powell of the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association, argue that the bill would result in job losses and endanger a century-old industry in the state. The bill is filed for the upcoming legislative session starting on March 4.