Santa Anita has filed a writ of mandate against the California Department of Justice (DOJ) following the removal of its Racing on Demand slot machine-style parimutuel games by state law enforcement. The track argues that its operation of these machines, which allow $1 bets on the first three finishers of previously run races, is legally protected under a 2024 California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) wager approval and supported by a 2006 California Office of Legislative Counsel ruling on similar Instant Racing machines. Santa Anita contends that neither the Attorney General’s office nor the CHRB disputed their legal analysis or challenged the track’s right to offer these wagers despite having ample time to do so.

The DOJ confiscated 26 machines during a public operation and issued a notice threatening to destroy them after 30 days unless court action intervenes. Santa Anita’s lawsuit seeks the return of the machines and the money inside, asserting confidence in their legal position. If destroyed, any seized funds would be transferred to the local treasury of Arcadia, where the track is located. The dispute highlights ongoing tensions over the legality and regulation of these gaming devices within California’s horse racing industry.