During a Feb. 10 legislative outlook session at Keeneland, Kentucky lawmakers highlighted the horse racing industry’s substantial economic contributions, including generating $75 million for the state general fund and driving significant tourism revenue, such as the $81 million impact from the 2022 Breeders’ Cup hosted at Keeneland. Legislators with ties to the equine sector emphasized the industry’s role as a major economic and cultural asset in Kentucky and stressed the need for ongoing legislative support to protect and promote the sector.

The panel urged industry stakeholders to actively engage with lawmakers, especially during primary elections, to ensure continued political backing. They also highlighted the importance of events like KEEP Day at the Capitol, which unites horse industry leaders and advocates to raise awareness of the industry’s impact and foster connections with legislators. The session underscored advocacy, networking, and voting as key strategies to sustain the industry’s future in Kentucky.